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 Claude Charles DeNardis (ASN: 11540155), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class DeNardis distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 27 June 1969, while serving as a Rifleman with Company A, 2d Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on an airmobile operation. When his unit came under intense hostile fire, Private First Class DeNardis volunteered, disregarding his personal safety, to move to the left side of the hostile emplacement attempting to get near enough to throw a grenade inside. Private DeNardis was successful in his attempt and saved the life of his Squad Leader who lay wounded near the emplacement, but immediately after throwing the grenade, he was hit by a hail of enemy rounds and fell mortally wounded. Private First Class DeNardis’ extraordinary heroism in close combat with an armed hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.