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 Warrant Officer (W-1) Nicholas Richard Alexander (ASN: W-3158732), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 118th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 November 1968. Warrant Officer Alexander distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander and fire team leader of a UH-1C helicopter gunship. He responded to a plea from a hamlet which was under enemy attack. Warrant Officer Alexander made repeated gun runs on the enemy positions, despite a barrage of enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. Friendly elements were inserted in a landing zone south of the hamlet and immediately received murderous enemy fire from the village. Warrant Officer Alexander courageously decided to go alone to the aid of the beleaguered infantrymen. As he placed his aircraft in a dive directed at the enemy positions, the aircraft began to receive intense enemy fire. His aircraft received several hits, one of which caused it to crash and burn amid the enemy positions. Warrant Officer Alexander’s gallantry in action at the cost of his life was instrumental in saving the lives of many friendly soldiers. 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.