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 Private First Class Paul Leslie Bradshaw, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Bradshaw distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 2 March 1971 while serving as a rifleman with Company C, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, on 2 March 1971 while serving as a rifleman with Company C, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date an element from Company C was established in their defensive position. Private Bradshaw was a member of a small force which departed the position in order to conduct a reconnaissance of the immediate area. As the element approached a well-concealed enemy bunker complex they were suddenly attacked by an enemy force of unknown size. Private Bradshaw reacted immediately by directing his fellow soldiers into strategic fighting positions and placing accurate covering fire on the hostile force as his men maneuvered into defensive positions. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continually exposed himself to the intense enemy fire as he moved from position to position distributing ammunition and covering the movement of the men. Suddenly realizing that three members of the element were separated from the main body of the friendly force, and in danger of being completely overwhelmed by the enemy soldiers, Private Bradshaw fully exposed himself to the devastating hail of enemy fire in order to draw fire upon himself and away from the three beleaguered soldiers. At this time he was mortally wounded. Private First Class Bradshaw’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.