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 Private First Class Alfred Duncan (ASN: US-54512220), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 7th Armored Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 August 1968. Private First Class Duncan distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a machine gunner during a sweeping operation conducted by two platoons of Troop D, 7th Armored Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry. He provided vital suppressive fire during the initial contact with an enemy platoon. As one friendly platoon moved forward, he put out a continuous volume of fire despite enemy machine gun and automatic weapons fire directed at him. He then moved forward to provide security, encountered two more enemy soldiers lying in ambush, and eliminated them with a burst from his machine gun. He then continued his suppressive fire in support of the personnel carriers pursuing the fleeing enemy as they attempted to break contact. Private First Class Duncan then volunteered to ride on the lead personnel carrier of the armor unit sent to reinforce his troop. He later dismounted and walked as point man. Here he killed several more of the enemy. His courage and inimitable proficiency with his weapon contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. 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.