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 Major (Infantry) Archie C. Ringgenberg, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 240th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 May 1969. Major Ringgenberg distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as air mission commander during a tactical emergency. He directed the insertion of four company elements to support the infantry engaged in a fierce firefight with an estimated enemy battalion. He directed his ships into landing zones to provide support and blocking forces against the enemy’s fortified positions and repeatedly directed air strikes on these positions. With darkness and bad weather creating reduced visibility, Major Ringgenberg directed successive re-supply and medevac missions. Before being released he inserted, again under deadly enemy fire, the task force commander into a landing zone with his men. Learning that the tank force commander was pinned down by enemy automatic weapons fire, he directed gunships on the enemy, thus neutralizing them. As a direct result of his courage, alertness and flying skill, over 80 enemy were killed and numerous communist anti-aircraft and automatic weapons were destroyed or captured. 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.