The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Fourth Class Salvatore Gallo (ASN: US-52772465), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. On 26 April 1969, Specialist Gallo was serving with his company on a counterinsurgency operations approximately five miles west of Lai Khe. After being inserted into a treacherous region by helicopter, the friendly unit was subjected to vicious enemy fire which killed the platoon sergeant who was serving as acting platoon leader. Specialist Gallo immediately assumed command of his element and strategically positioned his men. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he braved the insurgent barrage raking his location as he maneuvered throughout the area and directed suppressive fire on the well-fortified Viet Cong soldiers. During the four hour battle, Specialist Gallo accurately adjusted devastating supporting un ship barrages to within 30 meters of his position which destroyed several emplacements. Ignoring the hail of hostile rounds, he then advanced into the insurgent base camp and extracted two mortally wounded companions. His exemplary professional leadership, intrepid determination, and courageous initiative significantly contributed to the successful accomplishment of his company’s mission. Specialist Gallo’s unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces 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.