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) Stanley J. Cantrelle (ASN: 0-5350376), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Cantrelle distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 20 November 1968 while serving as Platoon Leader of the Second Platoon of Company C, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 196th Infantry Brigade. On that date, the company was conducting a search and clear operation northwest of Tam Ky. Maneuvering his platoon on point, Lieutenant Cantrelle and his men made contact with an enemy force of undetermined size. During the initial burst of fire, the point man was wounded and fell in an exposed area. Disregarding the hostile fire, Lieutenant Cantrelle moved to the injured point man and carried him back to safety. Continuing to expose himself to the hostile fire, he adjusted both artillery and his men’s retaliatory fire against the insurgents. He then led an assault against the enemy, driving them from their positions. Through his timely actions and decisive leadership, he was instrumental in the defeat of the enemy. First Lieutenant Cantrelle’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.