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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Tate Talmage Hackney, III (ASN: RA-23276855), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Hackney distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 22 June 1968, while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Division, during a search and destroy mission in the Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force and sustained several casualties, Sergeant Hackney exposed himself to the hostile fire as he moved to a forward fighting position to administer first aid to his wounded comrades. As the enemy fire increased, Sergeant Hackney began an assault on the insurgents’ positions, placing a large volume of fire on the adversaries. While supplying covering fire for the evacuation of the injured personnel, Sergeant Hackney was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.