The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Corps) Michael D. Strong (ASN: 0-5254792), United States Army, for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 8 February 1968 in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Strong distinguished himself by intrepid actions while serving as Battalion Surgeon with the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 198th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. On that date, a rifle company of his battalion came under heavy contact with a reinforced enemy battalion near Lo Giang and were sustaining numerous casualties. Immediately, Captain Strong insisted upon accompanying the first medical evacuation helicopter to go to the aid of the company. Arriving at the company command post, he took charge of caring for the wounded and their immediate evacuation. Despite the fact that the position was still under heavy small arms and mortar fire, Captain Strong moved about the exposed area, treating the seriously wounded, comforting men and ensuring that all wounded men were moved to a central location for treatment and evacuation. When the company launched a counterattack to drive the enemy from the field, more casualties were brought into the command post. Although the position was still receiving hostile fire, Captain Strong courageously made numerous trips into the open rice paddies to pick up wounded men from carrying parties. The immediate and skillful care he was able to provide was instrumental in saving the lives of many soldiers. Captain Strong’s conspicuous gallantry 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.