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 Chief Warrant Officer (W-2) Joseph W. Todd, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 116th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 12 December 1969. Chief Warrant Officer Todd distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a helicopter gunship supporting allied infantry. When he detected three enemy soldiers hiding in a hedgerow, three rocket runs were made and the position was neutralized. An aerial reconnaissance revealed many recently built bunkers and fighting positions. An insertion of infantry was initiated. As the troops advanced to within ten meters of the bunker complex, they were taken under heavy automatic weapons fire and were pinned down and unable to move. Chief Warrant Officer Todd made repeated rocket runs on the hostile positions to give the ground troops time to recover their wounded and pull back to safety. When this proved fruitless, he made low passes over the enemy positions, throwing out smoke grenades which completely hid the friendly element’s position. This allowed the friendly troops to withdraw to safety. Due to low fuel and the damage from enemy fire to his aircraft, he flew to a friendly base, re-fueled, and after an inspection of damage, returned to engage the enemy once again. His exceptional flying skills and courage under fire were instrumental in routing the enemy force. 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.