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 (Armor) Alvin Louis Mente, III, 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 Mente distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Platoon Leader with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 69th Armored Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 26 October 1969, elements of the 69th Armor at Strong Point C came under heavy enemy attack. Reacting immediately, First Lieutenant Mente effectively deployed his armored personnel carriers, and then began to place a tremendous volume of fire on the enemy positions. During the contact, Lieutenant Mente’s track was hit by a B-40 rocket, wounding several personnel. With complete disregard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Mente exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire to pull one man to safety. Then enemy, under extreme pressure from the tremendous volume of fire that was being directed at them, withdrew to dug in positions nearby. Without hesitation, First Lieutenant Mente led his men in an assault to flush the enemy from their positions, During this assault, First Lieutenant Mente was seriously wounded and evacuated from the battle. First Lieutenant Mente’s courageous actions, outstanding leadership, and exemplary devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.