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 Warrant Officer Curtis Lee Andersen (ASN: W-3160033), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force while serving with Troop A, 7th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 September 1968. Warrant Officer Andersen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving a the pilot of an CH-64 helicopter on a combat operation in the Republic of Vietnam. His team was assigned to screen around an advancing American unit and to assist in leading the unit through the dense jungle undergrowth. Having moved the troops several hundred meters along a ridge line, his team leader spotted an ambush position set up by the enemy. Realizing that their position had been exposed, the insurgents immediately started firing on the helicopters. Having been informed that his lead ship had been shot in the tail rotor, he rolled in and placed highly suppressive fire on the area. His quick reaction enabled the lead ship to escape without further damage, and enabled the ground unit to set up a defensive position. On Warrant Officer Andersen’s second pass, an enemy anti-aircraft position opened fire on him, causing his ship to crash to the ground and explode. Because of his willingness to lay down his own life, he saved the ground unit from walking into an ambush. His 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.