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 Staff Sergeant Henry G. Cestnik, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Cestnik distinguished himself on 29 April 1971, while commanding an armored assault vehicle of Troop E, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, conducting a security mission north of Trang Bang. As his platoon advanced, they encountered a hostile force firing rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons from well-fortified positions. Observing an enemy rocket hit a nearby armored track, Sergeant Cestnik maneuvered his vehicle to a position so that suppressive fire could be placed upon the foe while wounded personnel were evacuated from the damaged track. During the second assault, Sergeant Cestnik destroyed two enemy bunkers with accurate machine gun fire. Replenishing his supply of ammunition, he returned to the front line and again placed effective fire upon the belligerent’s positions. Staff Sergeant Cestnik’s gallantry was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.