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 Elmore E. Kayser, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action on 19 June 1967 and 20 June 1967, while serving as Pilot with Troop D, 3d Squadron, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in support of operations in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a routine flight to Tan An, Vietnam, First Lieutenant Kayser received a call for help from an Infantry Company that had been ambushed by a large enemy force. He arrived a the battle site to assault the enemy. The aircraft ammunition was exhausted and fuel was low, but he continued to mark enemy targets with smoke for additional tactical air support that had yet to arrive. First Lieutenant Kayser repeatedly flew to and from a nearby unit air field to rearm and refuel. He escorted countless re-supply and medical evacuation aircraft in and out of the hostile area. Flying at ground level below an evacuation helicopter loaded with wounded Soldiers, the helicopter was struck by heavy ground fire that caused it to rapidly lose altitude. First Lieutenant Kayser had to steer his aircraft away from the falling helicopter to avoid collision. Despite this tragic event and having sustained additional damage to his aircraft, First Lieutenant Kayser calmly continued assaulting the enemy. His remarkable efforts were vital in holding the enemy back and supporting the ground troops so they could maneuver to a more defensive position. First Lieutenant Kayser’s actions are 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.