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 Captain James Eddie Reed, United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, 3rd Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 1 February 1968. Captain Reed’s company had the mission to defend a small island in the Saigon River, which was remotely isolated from friendly supporting units. Learning through intelligence reports that a large North Vietnamese Army Force was suspected to be in the vicinity of his company positions, Captain Reed, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved under heavy enemy fire to a vantage point and began directing counter mortar fire on the enemy firing positions. His heroic example enabled the company to sustain the attack and prepare their positions for further action. Later in the evening, the North Vietnamese attacked again with a heavy mortar barrage on the company. Captain Reed, disregarding the heavy enemy fire, once again occupied a vantage point to direct counter mortar fire when he was mortally wounded by an incoming round. Captain Reed’s courageous actions under intense enemy fire with complete disregard for his own safety provided an inspiration to his men to endure the enemy attack. His valorous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.