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) George E. Patch, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 14 February 1970 while serving as a troop commander with Troop C, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date his unit came under heavy mortar, rocket propelled grenade and automatic weapons fire from an estimated battalion sized enemy force concealed in well camouflaged bunkers in heavy jungle. Captain Patch withdrew from the area as mortar fire set a demolition vehicle aflame to avoid numerous friendly casualties. While under heavy enemy fire, Captain Patch monitored a call requesting aid from some infantry soldiers that were pinned down and wounded by enemy fire. Immediately he organized a rescue team, including himself and three men. Ignoring the fusillade of enemy fire, Captain Patch and his rescue team moved out of the friendly perimeter. Almost immediately the team received heavy fire from an enemy bunker. Without hesitation, Captain Patch took the enemy under fire, forcing them to retreat into their bunker. He then charged the bunker, armed only with his personal weapon, and tossed a fragmentation grenade into the bunker, destroying it and its occupants. Enemy fire then became so intense that Captain Patch and his team were forced to withdraw back to the friendly perimeter. He then led his troop into the area to rout the enemy force, whereupon the rescue of the men was accomplished. Captain Patch’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.