The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Armor) Glenn O. Ryburn, Jr. (ASN: 0-97031), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat again an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Ryburn distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 March 1968, while serving as Executive Officer of the 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. While directing a vehicle recovery mission with five armored cavalry assault vehicles, Major Ryburn was informed that elements of his squadron were in heavy contact with an estimated battalion of Viet Cong near Duc Hoa, Vietnam. Assuming a fully exposed position on the lead vehicle, Major Ryburn led his small force across country to the scene of the fire fight. Professionally directing the suppressive fire, Major Ryburn led an assault on the rear of the Viet Cong fore, personally killing several insurgents as his element destroyed antitank positions. Pressing on through the enemy-held area, Major Ryburn led his unit to join the remainder of the 3d Squadron, then assumed command of all friendly ground forces. Completely disregarding his own safety, Major Ryburn remained in a fully exposed position to direct tactical airstrikes and gunships against the numerically superior force. After four hours of fighting, the insurgents attempted to break contact and withdraw. Major Ryburn immediately directed a blocking force against the retreating enemy, forcing them to remain in the area. He then coordinated with all nearby friendly elements in the establishment of a night defensive perimeter and the placement of ambush patrols. In addition, he voluntarily remained in the small defensive position to direct artillery fire against the enemy fortifications. Major Ryburn’s extraordinary heroism in lose combat against a numerically superior Viet Cong force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.