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 Sergeant First Class Bernard W. Newman, United States Army, for gallantry in action in Republic of Vietnam on 5 May 1968 while serving with Company A, 5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special Forces in an advisory capacity to a company of Civilian Irregular Defense Group soldiers during a reconnaissance operation. The company made contact with enemy troops and moved immediately in pursuit but was ambushed by a reinforced company of enemy troops and sustained heavy casualties in the initial barrage of fire. Although under extremely heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire, Sergeant Newman led an assault to push back the enemy force and was able to knock out the enemy’s most damaging machine gun position. After being pinned down by enemy fire, Sergeant Newman calmly directed artillery fire on the enemy positions until American gunships arrived to assist in the fighting. After arrival of the gunships, Sergeant Newman began the withdrawal of the friendly troops. During the withdrawal he was wounded in the leg by enemy rifle fire while acting as the cover force by himself. After moving to a more secure position, Sergeant Newman continued to provide covering fire for the withdrawing friendly force. He refused medical attention and continued to assist, directing the gunships in their fight against the enemy, continuously exposing himself to enemy fire. Sergeant Newman’s valorous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect the highest credit on him and the United States Army.