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) Robert Bartholomew, III (ASN: 0-5244841), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Combat Support Company, 2d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 January 1969. On this date, Lieutenant Bartholomew was serving with his company as a platoon leader while conducting reconnaissance operations in a suspected Viet Cong bask camp area in the vicinity of Di An. When the friendly force discovered a tunnel complex occupied by an armed insurgent force, Lieutenant Bartholomew personally directed the capture of four of the enemy soldiers and their weapons. He continued to occupy the base camp area throughout the night and next day in order to search for additional enemy emplacements. Lieutenant Bartholomew’s professional performance of his mission significantly contributed to the capture of 12 insurgents, the discovery and destruction of 32 tunnel complexes, the capture of numerous enemy weapons, and the elimination of a battalion size base camp. His selfless courage served as an inspiration to the men of his unit and earned him the respect and confidence of all who witnessed his actions. First Lieutenant Bartholomew’s unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.