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 Wayne Austin Decker (ASN: US-54824369), United States Army, for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 12 June 1968, in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Decker distinguished himself by intrepid actions while serving as a Rifleman in Company A, 5th Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment, 198th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division. On that date, his company was conducting a search and clear operation near the village of Dong Le when they suddenly came under intense fire from an enemy force of undetermined size. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private Decker courageously assaulted the insurgents with grenades and rifle fire, forcing them to break contact and withdraw. Although exposed to the hostile fire, he fearlessly continued his personal assault until the enemy force had completely withdrawn. Through his courage, initiative and quick thinking, Private Decker contributed greatly to the success of the mission and repulsing the hostile force. Private First Class Decker’s unquestionable valor while in close combat with a numerically superior hostile force and unselfish concern for his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.