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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor) Steven W. Vince, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 21 January 1970 while serving as Commanding Officer Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Troop B was reacting to heavy contact in the area of their base camp. As Lieutenant Vince maneuvered toward the area of contact his troop was suddenly engaged by a large enemy force firing intense volley of mortar, recoilless rifle, automatic weapons and small arms fire. Lieutenant Vince directed his troops into battle formation and charge toward the enemy positions. Suddenly the enemy appeared on all sides. Reacting immediately to this change in the tactical operations, Lieutenant Vince directed one of his platoons to turn and cover the rear and flanks. In spite of the intense enemy fire, Lieutenant Vince remained in his exposed position in order to better observe the courage of battle and direct his units most effectively. Even though sustaining severe wounds during the fire fight, Lieutenant Vince continued to direct the friendly forces and coordinate medical evacuation of other member of his command. First Lieutenant Vince’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

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 First Lieutenant (Armor) Steven W. Vince, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, on 6 September 1969. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.