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 Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Philip Robert Feir (ASN: 0-59189), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Battalion Commander, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, on a search and destroy operation in Kontum Province near the Cambodian Border in the central highlands of the Republic of Vietnam. At 2300 hours the battalion command post located at Landing Zone 503A came under an attack by North Vietnamese Army forces. Colonel Feir, who had retired early, arose immediately, and with the deliberate calmness and cool efficiency of an outstanding combat leader, entered the battalion tactical operation center to secure first-hand information concerning the situation. Upon receiving the report, Colonel Feir, with complete disregard for his own safety, left the operation center to secure first-hand information from personnel on the perimeter. Although the mortar rounds continued to fall in the immediate area, he moved to the artillery liaison officer to ensure that all supporting and defensive concentrations were being fired. He also visited the company defending the perimeter and his presence gave the men renewed courage. Throughout the attack, Colonel Feir’s calm manner and encouraging words to the defenders inspired them to greater feats of valor. Colonel Feir’s aggressiveness, devotion to duty and personal bravery were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.