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 Specialist Fourth Class George Richard Avgerinos (ASN: US-54833317), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Avgerinos distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 6 March 1969, while serving as a rifleman with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat air assault operation in Bien Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam. Upon deploying from his helicopter on a recently cut landing zone, Specialist Avgerinos ran to the southern sector of the area to establish a fighting position. As he approached the perimeter, he spotted an enemy machine gun emplacement. Without hesitation, Specialist Avgerinos exposed himself to the hostile position as he placed accurate fire on the enemy emplacement which alerted the remainder of his element to the danger and allowed them to seek positions of cover. During his heroic action, Specialist Avgerinos was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.