The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class James R. Cumberpatch, Jr. (ASN: RA-13819927), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 23 June 1966, while serving as a medical aid man attached to Company C, 2d Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, Specialist Four Cumberpatch demonstrated courage, devotion to duty, and professional competence which contributed to the defeat of a platoon size force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars. When the heavily fortified and well concealed enemy opened fire upon the advancing unit automatic and small arms, Specialist Four Cumberpatch repeatedly exposed himself to intense and accurate hostile fire. During the height of the battle, when a wounded soldier was stranded on a rocky ledge, Specialist Four Cumberpatch volunteered to climb to him and render first aid. In the process, he was wounded in the leg, but proceeded to crawl to the wounded soldier’s aid. Once having reached him, Specialist Four Cumberpatch then located an enemy sniper and directed machine gun fire upon him, disregarding a warning to remain silent. Having exposed himself to hostile fire once more, Specialist Four Cumberpatch was wounded again, this time mortally. Specialist Four Cumberpatch’s conspicuous gallantry is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.