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 Earl W. Himes (ASN: 15955630), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Command and Control Detachment, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Himes distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 5 March 1969 as assistant leader of a reconnaissance team operating deep within enemy-held territory. As he and his comrades entered a clearing they were caught in an ambush and were pinned under the intense hostile fire. Seeing the point man shot by an enemy machine gunner, Sergeant Himes maneuvered forward to assist the stricken man and found that he was dead. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he charged the machine gun position, firing his rifle and throwing grenades until he was mortally wounded by the communists’ barrage. His courageous act enabled his fellow team members to escape the enemy killing zone and reach cover. Sergeant Himes’ gallantry in action at the cost of his life, was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.