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 Specialist Fourth Class Melvin L. Wilkison (ASN: US-54902251), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Wilkison distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 December 1968, while serving as a Team Leader with Company C, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force, Specialist Wilkison exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he moved forward and while standing, placed accurate suppressive fire on the enemy positions enabling his comrades to move a casualty to a secure position. After air strikes were completed, his unit moved forward and again came under intense hostile fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Specialist Wilkison again stood up to engage the enemy positions enabling his unit to withdraw. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.