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 Private First Class Terrance M. Eckel (ASN: US-51986278), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Eckel distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 9 March 1969, while serving as a member of the reconnaissance platoon with Company E, 4th Battalion, 3d Infantry Regiment, 11th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. On that date, the platoon was conducting search and clear operations near Tra Binh when it was pinned down by intense small arms, automatic weapons, and grenade fire from a well entrenched enemy force, and sustained several casualties. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Private Eckel maneuvered through the hostile fire toward an enemy bunker. As he closed with the position, Private Eckel placed effective rifle fire on the insurgents and threw a hand grenade into the emplacement. After expending his supply of ammunition, Private Eckel secured a discarded enemy weapon and silenced the bunker. His courageous actions enabled his comrades to move to positions from which they could effectively engage the hostile force. Private First Class Eckel’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.