The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) Samuel Lawrence Hoard (ASN: 0-5004890), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Chaplain Hoard distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 8 December 1967, while serving as Battalion Chaplain with the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during a combat mission near Dai Dong, Republic of Vietnam. When an infantry unit assaulted into known enemy terrain, Chaplain Hoard, disregarding his own safety, volunteered to accompany the unit. Repeatedly exposing himself to the enemy fire, he moved to the sides of several wounded soldiers to administer first aid as well as spiritual aid. Chaplain Hoard’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against an enemy force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army.