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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ervin N. Crutchfield, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Crutchfield distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 4 June 1970 while serving as a platoon leader with Troop K, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Lieutenant Crutchfield’s platoon was suddenly engaged by an armed enemy force. Although his vehicle was subject to a hail of small arms fire, he began seeking out the enemy positions. Locating the enemy positions he shifted his platoon’s fire onto them, gaining fire superiority and allowing his platoon to assault the enemy force. When the enemy broke and fled Lieutenant Crutchfield began the pursuit of the routed foe. Although Lieutenant Crutchfield was painfully wounded by fragments, he refused medical attention and continued to lead his platoon until he was stopped by an un-fordable stream. First Lieutenant Crutchfield’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.