The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Specialist Fourth Class Floyd Gordon Book, Jr. (ASN: US-MC-2130395), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Book distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 7 September 1969, while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) in the Republic of Vietnam. When his unit made heavy contact with a large enemy force, Specialist Fourth Class Book, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved forward to the point of most intense conflict and began assisting with return fire. When he noticed an enemy soldier about to throw a grenade into a concentration of friendly forces, he reacted quickly exposing himself to heavy fire in order to kill the enemy. On numerous occasions, Specialist Fourth Class Book assisted in knocking out enemy positions, using his knowledge of the enemy’s language to encourage their surrender. His display of personal bravery and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.