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 Major (Armor) Frederick Melvin Franks, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Franks distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 19 February 1970, while serving as S-3 with the 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while flying a visual reconnaissance mission, Major Franks received a radio message that enemy movement had been observed in his area. He instructed his pilot to fly to the suspected enemy positions and to make several low level passes to draw the enemy’s fire. When the helicopter received intense automatic weapons fire from the ground, Major Franks called in and adjusted artillery on the enemy positions. He then noticed a bunker complex with what appeared to be packs and equipment strewn on the ground. Disregarding his own safety, Major Franks directed his pilot to land the helicopter near the bunker. While the craft was settling down Major Franks spotted an enemy soldier maneuvering toward a tree line. After making every effort to allow the soldier to surrender he instructed his door gunner to commence fire upon him. He then returned to the bunker complex and, as the door gunner jumped from the craft and assaulted the position with a machinegun, Major Franks provided protective fire with his personal weapon. He then assisted in collecting and placing the packs and equipment on board. It was later found that the packs contained valuable intelligence information. Major Franks’ gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.