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 Captain (Infantry) John R. Vlazny, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 240th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 12 May 1969. Captain Vlazny distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as flight lead of a light fire team during a tactical emergency northeast of Thu Thua. He made maximum use of his mini guns and rockets in neutralizing an estimated enemy battalion that had taken siege of the town. With disregard for his own personal safety he supported friendly elements in fierce contact with the enemy. While flying dangerously low, he located and neutralized numerous enemy positions by rocket fire. He also provided maximum cover for the lift ships while they inserted friendly elements and marked numerous enemy gun emplacements for air strikes. The command and control aircraft inserted the task force commander who immediately was pinned down by enemy fire. At this time Captain Vlazny and his wingman flew under enemy fire, placing accurate fire on the enemy position and neutralized it. As a direct result of his courage, alertness, and devotion to duty, over 80 enemy soldiers were killed and numerous enemy weapons destroyed or captured. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.