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 Sergeant John Francis Plunkard (ASN: RA-13888308), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity In action against the enemy. Sergeant Plunkard distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 3d Brigade, 505th Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 8 April 1968. Sergeant Plunkard was serving as a fire team leader on a combat operation near the village of Then Thien Tra. As his company approached the village, the lead elements came under heavy automatic weapons fire. Sergeant Plunkard reacted quickly after the initial burst of fire by moving his men to the left flank of the enemy positions. He repeatedly exposed himself to the hail of fire that enveloped the area, directing his men as they moved toward the trench system occupied by the enemy. Without regard for his own safety, he entered the trenches destroying a gun emplacement. In accomplishing this Sergeant Plunkard was mortally wounded. His devotion to duty and extraordinary heroism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.