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 Larry Louis Gambotto (ASN: US-5497202), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Gambotto distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company B, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 13 September 1968, Sergeant Gambotto’s company was conducing a combat operation in the vicinity of Duc Lap when it came under intense sniper fire. Leading a small element forward, Sergeant Gambotto attempted to locate and eliminate the enemy sniper. As the enemy fire increased his element was forced to retreat. As the company maneuvered into position to engage the snipers, Sergeant Gambotto voluntarily took the point. After proceeding about 50 meters, well-entrenched and concealed enemy positions took the platoon under fire and seriously wounded Sergeant Gambotto. Disregarding his wounds, he charged the enemy positions hurling grenades at them only to be mortally wounded by enemy shrapnel. Sergeant Gambotto’s personal bravery, determination and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.