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 Fifth Class John B. Crebaugh, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop A, 7th Armored Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 March 1969. Specialist Fifth Class Crebaugh distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as observer on an OH-6A light observation helicopter on a screening mission southeast of Bach Gia. While conducting their assigned mission, the team of scouts came under intense enemy fire, forcing one aircraft down in the middle of an estimated two battalions of Viet Cong. The other scout aircraft immediately followed to execute an extraction of the crew. On approach to the downed aircraft both ships began receiving heavy automatic weapons fire and immediately Specialist Fifth Class Crebaugh began using his rifle to suppress the enemy fire. As the pilot landed he jumped from the aircraft and ran to the aid of the crew on the ground. He began firing at the tree line where the majority of the enemy fire was concentrated and acted as a rear guard to provide cover as the wounded pilot and observer made their way to his ship. Only when the downed crew was safely on the ship did he return. Upon take off Specialist Fifth Class Crebaugh continued to fire at the enemy and drop grenades on them. His aircraft successfully departed and flew the crew to an awaiting medevac ship. 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.