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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Edward Darling, Jr., 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 Darling distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Communications Officer of the 2d Battalion (Airborne), 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against the enemy in April 1970. When his battalion tactical operations center received a direct hit wounding the executive officer and several other men, First Lieutenant Darling immediately assumed command, and then administered first aid to casualties. Braving the impacting rounds, he carried a wounded man to a medical evacuation helicopter, then returned to the command post to direct armed helicopter support of the extraction operation. His actions under fire enabled the prompt evacuation of casualties and forced the withdrawal of the hostile force. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Darling, 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.