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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Fourth Class John D. Lee, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 61st Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 7 June 1968. Specialist Fourth Class lee distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as crew chief on a UH-1H helicopter near Bong Son. His ship was on short final to an obstacle strewn pinnacle to pick up a reconnaissance patrol, when a violent explosion killed the ground guide. Damage was negligible so the pilot decided to hover to the team and have them board the helicopter. Radio contact was established and it was found that all three men were wounded. As the aircraft approached the ground, Specialist Lee jumped and maneuvered his way through the mine field to the wounded men. He made four trips across the deadly ground, making sure that all of the wounded men were safely on board the helicopter. The three wounded men were successfully evacuated to a nearby field hospital. Later that day a gun team raked the area with automatic weapons fire which resulted in several secondary explosions. 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.