(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Sergeant Joe Samaniego, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Samaniego distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 12 June 1968, while serving as a machine gunner with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a search and destroy mission in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Samaniego, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.