The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Douglas Gordon Orvis (ASN: OF-111224), 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 Orvis distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 29 July 1968, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company C, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during a search and destroy mission in the Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large well-entrenched enemy force and sustained numerous casualties, Lieutenant Orvis immediately maneuvered his platoon forward to relieve the pinned down first platoon. Disregarding his own safety, Lieutenant Orvis exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he assisted in evacuating the wounded personnel. As the enemy fire became less intense he led his men into more effective positions. Despite the fact that he was injured, Lieutenant Orvis moved to within approximately 10 meters from an enemy bunker in order to assist a wounded comrade. While evacuating the injured soldier, Lieutenant Orvis was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.