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 William James Burkhardt (ASN: US-51612775), 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 Burkhardt distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 October 1967 while serving as radio relay and carrier attendant for a Special Forces detachment during an attack on the camp at Chau Doc. A large Viet Cong force launched a savage recoilless rifle and small arms attack on the camp late at night. Specialist Burkhardt immediately called for armed illumination helicopters despite the face that his position was a focal point of the barrage and the walls of an adjacent room were already crumbling from the impact of the incoming rounds. Completely disregarding his own safety, he refused to leave his position and radioed higher headquarters to inform them of the critical situation. While making the call, his radio room received a direct hit from a recoilless rifle round. He was mortally wounded while unselfishly placing the safety of his comrades above his own welfare. His courageous actions aided greatly in the defense of the camp against overwhelming Viet Cong attack. Specialist Fourth Class Burkhardt’s gallantry in action, at the cost of his life, was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.