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 (Armor) Frederick E. Palmer, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 6 July 1969 while serving as troop commander of Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Troop A was conducting a reconnaissance mission when they were suddenly engaged by an estimated company of North Vietnamese Army soldiers using small arms, automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fire. Although the leading vehicles suffered direct hits from antitank grenades, Captain Palmer immediately directed his men on line. He also maneuvered his own vehicle to cover the evacuation of several wounded men, although he was lacking two gunners. Suddenly a rocket propelled grenade slammed into his vehicle, wounding him and the track commander. Ignoring his painful wounds, Captain Palmer moved from one machine gun to another as he placed an effective barrage of suppressive fire, enabling the medics to evacuate the wounded personnel to a safe location. After making certain that the casualties were removed, he redeployed his troops on line and mounted an assault against the determined foe, which led to the defeat of the enemy. Captain Palmer’s outstanding bravery and courageous leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.