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 Major (Transportation Corps) John Anthony Petric (ASN: 0-86627), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 191st Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 2 March 1969. Major Petric distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during an enemy mortar attack on the 191st Assault Helicopter Company. As soon as the hostile rounds started coming in, he made his way to the Company Operations building to assist with the evacuation of wounded personnel. Upon learning that a man had been wounded on the flight line, he volunteered to evacuate the wounded man. Once the man was safely in the medical facilities, he made his way back to the Company area. Major Petric then began checking for damage to the critical equipment in the immediate vicinity. As he was making a final tally of the damaged aircraft, a mortar round landed in the area and mortally wounded him. 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.