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 Phillip Chris Petsos, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop B, 7th Armored Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 July 1969. Specialist Fourth Class Petsos distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as radio-telephone operator for the platoon leader of the aero-rifle platoon. The platoon was inserted in an area southwest of Kontum, where several North Vietnamese soldiers had been spotted. After performing ground reconnaissance for approximately one hour, the platoon discovered an enemy bunker and foxhole complex. A sweep of the complex, with Specialist Petsos in the lead squad, brought the platoon negative results until he spotted movement in a well camouflaged bunker to the front. Just as he warned the rest of the lead squad of the danger, the enemy opened with withering fire from the front and flank. Specialist Fourth Class Petsos was mortally wounded in the first burst of fire, however he voluntarily tried to mark the nearly invisible enemy bunker with smoke. Once again he was struck down but despite his wounds, he calmly reported the situation to the rest of the platoon and to the aircraft above. After a last heroic effort to place a mark on the enemy, Specialist Petsos lost consciousness. 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.