(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Private First Class Gary Birka, United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action while serving as an Infantryman with Company D, 4th Battalion, 3d Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division, during combat operations in the Republic of Vietnam on 29 August 1969. Private First Class Birka distinguished himself when his unit was ambushed during a search and destroy operation. While under intense enemy fire from an estimated battalion size force of North Vietnamese Army, Private Birka rushed forward to help establish a perimeter and was wounded by a mortar round. Private First Class Birka’s personal heroism was an inspiration to others and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.