The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Harold Francis Amerau, Jr. (NSN: 0-5298463), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in armed conflict against Communist Viet Cong aggressors in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 July 1968. As Officer in Charge of a Patrol Craft Fast (PCF) and Officer in Tactical Command of a special operation, Lieutenant Amerau penetrated an enemy held stronghold to locate Viet Cong positions and determine enemy resistance for planning future raids. While seeking out the enemy in the Ba De River in the Nam Can Peninsula, his boat was taken under intense enemy recoilless rifle fire and received a direct hit two inches above the waterline causing severe flooding and loss of communications. Although wounded, and without regard for his own safety, he courageously exposed himself to intense enemy fire and directed accurate fire on the enemy emplacement. Simultaneously directing suppressive fire, administering first aid to wounded crew members and supervising the patching of the hole with mattresses and blankets, he successfully maneuvered his craft from the ambush area. He reestablished radio contact with a spotter aircraft and directed naval gunfire support into the ambush site. After effecting emergency repairs to his craft, and despite his wounds, he returned to the scene of action to deliver an effective barrage of mortar fire onto targets reported by the spotter aircraft, which resulted in three enemy gun positions and one bunker destroyed and five secondary ammunition explosions. After expending all ammunition and taking on large quantities of water in rough seas, he expertly maneuvered his boat to a friendly offensive unit thereby saving his boat and wounded crew members. Through his participation in planning the operation and masterful and heroic execution, a precedent was set for future MARKET TIME RAIDER Operations in support of Operation SEALORDS which resulted in the pacification of areas previously considered as Viet Cong sanctuaries. Lieutenant Amerau’s initiative, courage under fire, devotion to duty, leadership and outstanding professionalism contributed significantly to the success of the special operation. His performance was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.