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) Mark Francis Brennan, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile enemy force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Brennan distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 29 April 1970, while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company A, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), in the Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon engaged an enemy force, Fist Lieutenant Brennan began maneuvering his squads to gain fire superiority and to withdraw the wounded men to safety. During the firefight he exposed himself to fire in order to withdraw the wounded men and in doing so was wounded himself. In spite of his wounds, First Lieutenant Brennan continued to maneuver his platoon against the enemy and successfully evacuated the wounded. His gallant actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.