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 Staff Sergeant [then Private First Class] Michael B. Checchia, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with the 1st Squad, 1st Platoon, Company B, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 9th Infantry Division, on 16 September 1968. His actions, without regard for his own safety, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.