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 Waldon Lee. Gibbs (ASN: RA-16811867), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company E, 1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 10 February 1969. On this date, Sergeant Gibbs was serving with his company as the non-commissioned officer in charge of a riverine reconnaissance in force operation in the Rach Dong River. While proceeding on the river towards it night defensive position, the friendly force was suddenly subjected to an intense barrage of close range automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fire by a squad size Viet Cong element. During the initial aggressor fusillade, several members of the riverine force were wounded and one of the boats was rendered inoperable. When the operator of his craft was also wounded and knocked overboard, Sergeant Gibbs, who was also wounded. Immediately maneuvered his boat in an effort to retrieve his injured comrade. Although he was exposed to the vicious enemy fire, Sergeant Gibbs ignored his painful wound and picked up another casualty that had also fallen into the river. He then skillfully moved his boat to an area where the casualties could be evacuated. Sergeant Gibbs refused medical aid until the other wounded men had been treated. His courageous initiative, bold determination, and selfless concern for his comrade significantly contributed to the saving of two American lives. Staff Sergeant Gibbs’ unquestionable valor while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an insurgent force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.