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 Captain (Transportation Corps) Carl W. Strever, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations on 19 October 1963, in the Republic of Vietnam. As Pilot of a CH-21 helicopter, Captain Strever displayed fortitude, perseverance, and professional skill while participating in a troop airlift operation in support of the ground forces of the Republic of Vietnam. When the lead aircraft was struck by small arms and automatic weapons fire during the first landing and rendered incapable of further flight, coming to rest on its right side, Captain Strever quickly assessed the danger of the situation and maneuvered his helicopter into a position between the downed aircraft and the source of the hostile gun fire to afford the crew protection. As a medical helicopter arrived on the scene to evacuate the stricken personnel, he continued to use his helicopter as a barrier against the hostile ground fire while the evacuation was conducted. Then, when the machine gunner of his aircraft was critically wounded during the action, Captain Strever left the cockpit, manned the machine gun, and defended his fellow soldiers by returning the fire until all the ammunition was expended. Although struck by shrapnel from hostile rounds, he completely disregarded his own wounds, and did not request the copilot to make the takeoff until all of the crew of the demolished aircraft were evacuated while he remained with the seriously injured gunner to administer first aid. Captain Strever’s unselfish actions and conspicuous gallantry are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.