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 Sergeant First Class Charles K. Allen (ASN: RA-14489916), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant First Class Allen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 April 1965, while serving as Medic aboard a helicopter of the 57th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance), 436th Medical Detachment, 68th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade, 1st Logistic Command, during the evacuation of casualties from combat areas near Duc Hoa. Sergeant Allen’s helicopter landed next to one which had crashed between the friendly and hostile forces. While the crew chief went to the wreckage to bring out the downed crew, Sergeant Allen jumped out of the aircraft and crawled forward to where he could cover the rescue. His move drew intense fire from the Viet Cong, but he held his position until the downed men were safely aboard. He then returned and the helicopter took off. Later, his pilot landed, while receiving a tremendous barrage of fire, to pick up a wounded American advisor. When he saw Vietnamese casualties approaching the aircraft, Sergeant Allen ran out to assist them. Before they had gone more than a few feet, some of them were hit by the Viet Cong fire which continuously tore up the ground around the aircraft and destroyed much of a rice paddy dike nearby. Heedless of mortar shrapnel and the incessant hail of fire, Sergeant Allen calmly remained exposed while helping casualties on board. As soon as the helicopter left the ground, he began to administer first aid. His dauntless courage under fire enabled him to save the lives of many wounded. Sergeant First Class Allen’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.