We finally know the backstory of how Defense Secretary Austin got the Silver Star

Sounds like he got the medal for doing his job as a DCG. Probably even more so for the 3rd ID CG.

The level of Iraqi resistance threatened to upend the U.S. timetable for taking key objectives. Then-Maj. Gen. James Mattis, who was leading the 1st Marine Division at the time, took the unusual step of relieving a regimental commander in the middle of combat operations for not moving quickly enough.
It was in this environment that Austin led soldiers with the 3rd Infantry Division, often while under enemy fire. As Operation Iraqi Freedom unfolded, Austin “was the heartbeat of the division’s attack from Kuwait to Baghdad,” according to the narrative for his Silver Star.
“BG Austin orchestrated hundreds of Close Air Support sorties, simultaneously controlled several units in contact while clearing fires for multiple artillery barrages and missile strikes. His ability to see the enemy, see the Division, and see the terrain, while issuing concise guidance was instrumental to the success of the Division.”
Austin continued to coordinate air and ground forces as the 3rd Infantry Division rolled north. He also recommended to his commanding general that the division push hard into Baghdad.
Ultimately, Austin forced the Iraqis to fight a battle for which they were unprepared and destroyed them, “Saving the lives of countless soldiers, while inflicting catastrophic damage on the Iraqi forces,” according to the award citation.