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 Ivy Lewis Blair (ASN: RA-53375069), 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 Blair distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 12 May 1968 while serving as a squad leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Division, during a search and destroy mission near Ky Lam in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force and sustained several casualties, Specialist Fourth Class Blair exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he placed effective suppressive fire on the enemy positions, enabling the injured to be evacuated to safety. At this time he was mortally wounded. The heroic actions of Specialist Fourth Class Blair were directly responsible for saving the lives of several seriously wounded comrades. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.