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 Specialist Fourth Class Richard James Best, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 7 September 1969, while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company D, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 9th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date during a night operation in Long An Province, Specialist Best moved a wounded comrade to a landing zone for evacuation. As a helicopter approached the pick-up area, the two men on the ground came under intense enemy small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire. Disregarding his own safety, Specialist Best remained with his weakened comrade. Although he was wounded by hostile fire, Specialist Best stayed in the exposed position and provided assistance until he succumbed to his wounds. Nevertheless, as a result of his efforts, the other man was safely evacuated. Specialist Fourth Class Best’s courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his comrade were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.