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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Thaddeus Bode (ASN: 0-95744), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Bode distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 28 September 1965 while serving with the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, as an Advisor to the 23d Ranger Battalion, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. While the 23d Ranger Battalion was moving to the relief of another besieged friendly force it was ambushed by a large Viet Cong force. First Lieutenant Bode maneuvered to an exposed location to request and direct aerial support. He courageously ordered friendly strikes within twenty-five meters of his position. When the intensity of the enemy attack diminished, First Lieutenant Bode advised his counterpart to initiate an attack to clear the area of any remaining insurgents. Setting an inspiring example for the friendly troops, First Lieutenant Bode led the assault against the remaining communists, annihilating several of them before being wounded and evacuated from the area. First Lieutenant Bode’s conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.