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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Lawrence Henry Kocher (ASN: 0-5351624), United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 April 1968. Second Lieutenant Kocher distinguished himself while serving as a platoon leader with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 82d Airborne Division, on a combat operation against suspected enemy fortifications in the vicinity of Ap Nam Phu, Republic of Vietnam. As Second Lieutenant Kocher’s platoon, the company’s lead element, advanced toward the suspected enemy positions they were engaged, pinned down, and cut off from the remainder of their unit by withering automatic weapons and sniper fire. While organizing and directing the fire of his men, Second Lieutenant Kocher was seriously wounded by sniper fire. With complete disregard for his wound, Second Lieutenant Kocher repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy’s heavy volume of fire while moving from position to position providing his men with aggressive leadership in directing fire. Through his efforts, his platoon built up a sufficient volume of fire to permit members of less engaged elements of the company to retrieve the casualties. Second Lieutenant Kocher personally directed their efforts and continued to encourage and direct his element until he became to weak to lead his men. His personal bravery and 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.