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) Henry Joseph Berthelot, 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 Berthelot distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company E, 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 11th Infantry Brigade (Light), 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 August 1968. First Lieutenant Berthelot was serving as platoon leader of the reconnaissance Platoon of Company E, which was activated in Vietnam when he and his radio telephone operator were severely wounded by an exploding rocket. First Lieutenant Berthelot had moved his platoon to a remote village to relieve a Special Forces element that was pinned down by enemy fire, advancing on the enemy location and although wounded by mortar fire, he continued directing his platoon until he was severely wounded and became unconscious. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Berthelot, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.