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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Richard Harold Davis, United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Davis distinguished himself by gallantry in action on 30 April 1970 while serving as Advisor to the 28th Regional Forces Company Group on an airmobile operation conducted in Kien Van District. Lieutenant Davis and two companies were inserted at approximately 0830 hours with the mission to sweep south to meet two other companies. At approximately 1430 hours the ground forces came under fierce mortar, machine gun, and small arms fire. Lieutenant Davis reacted immediately, directing the gunship and the command and control aircraft to deliver fire on the enemy positions in an effort to reduce the enemy fire. At the same time, he attempted to direct the troops out of the killing zone of the mortar fire and to establish a base of fire to allow other elements to maneuver against the enemy. The problems were intensified with the loss of both Vietnamese company commanders and control of the friendly forces deteriorated dangerously. Lieutenant Davis attempted to get the remaining forces out of the killing zone and away from the numerically superior enemy forces. While attempting to move the friendly troops out of the area, another American advisor was wounded. Lieutenant Davis returned in the face of intense enemy fire and tried to move the wounded advisor to safety. After moving approximately 100 meters, Lieutenant Davis stopped and took up a firing position with the wounded man, covering the withdrawal of the friendly forces. Lieutenant Davis remained at his firing position in the face of overwhelming enemy odds until he was mortally wounded. First Lieutenant Davis’ gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army.