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 Captain (Infantry) Donald S. Cunningham, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 4 April 1964 in connection with military operations involving an opposing force in the Republic of Vietnam. As an Advisor to a Vietnamese infantry regiment, Captain Cunningham was accompanying the friendly element on a relief mission when the regiment suddenly encountered two superior battalions of enemy forces. As the regiment was subjected to an onslaught of intense automatic weapons fire and mortars from the front and both flanks, Captain Cunningham demonstrated outstanding professional skill and directed the unit to fall back to a nearby woodline and assume a temporary defensive position. Then, with complete disregard for his own life, he moved from soldier to soldier, encouraging them to return the fire and to advance. When an aircraft and two armed helicopters arrived in the operational area to provide support during the ensuing fire fight, Captain Cunningham bravely exposed himself to the hostile gun fire to establish radio contact with the aircraft and direct the support actions. As the two armed helicopters returned to the scene of the battle after departing for a re-supply of ammunition, Captain Cunningham again displayed fortitude and perseverance by continuing to expose himself to the enemy fire to direct the aircraft to the targets. Although he was seriously wounded during his inspiring and courageous actions, he continued his valiant efforts by giving appropriate orders to his radio operator to insure victory for the friendly forces. Captain Cunningham’s conspicuous gallantry and extraordinary heroic conduct are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.