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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert J. Stickles, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 3 November 1969, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company E, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 199th Infantry Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while his platoon was set up in an ambush position, one of the observation posts came under intense enemy fire. Lieutenant Stickles quickly led the remainder of his platoon to relieve the beleaguered element. He repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fusillade as he directed artillery fire, helicopter gunship assaults and the fire of his men. After the endangered element had withdrawn, he remained exposed to sniper fire as he directed the evacuation of the wounded by helicopter. First Lieutenant Stickles’ actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.