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 Private First Class Barry L. Merritt, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 199th Light Infantry Brigade, on 7 May 1968. His actions, without regard for his own safety, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.