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) Jerry Joe Burcham (ASN: 0-73624), United States Army, for gallantry In action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Colonel Burcham distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 14 February 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion (Airmobile, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat extraction mission near Tong Le Chon, Republic of Vietnam. When a medical evacuation helicopter was downed by heavy fire, Lieutenant Colonel Burcham immediately flew his command helicopter to the crash site. Exposing himself to the hostile fire, Lieutenant Colonel Burcham landed his aircraft in order to personally supervise the recovery of the wounded personnel. With complete disregard for his own safety, he left his helicopter and assisted in the evacuation of an injured soldier. Lieutenant Colonel Burcham’s exceptional organizational ability was greatly responsible for the expeditious extraction of the downed crew, and his leadership during the crucial moments of the rescue mission was an inspiration to his men. His display of personal bravery and devotion to duty is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.