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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Timothy Michael Porter (ASN: 0-5348021), United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Porter distinguished himself by exceptionally gallant actions against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 October 1968, while serving as Second Platoon Leader of Company B, 3d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). On that day, the second platoon was the lead element with point and flank security, when at approximately 0830 hours, the left flank security man was seriously wounded by three North Vietnamese soldiers. Lieutenant Porter immediately deployed his platoon to the area of contact and informed the company commander and forward observer in order to initiate supporting fire. Exposing himself to the murderous hostile fire, Lieutenant Porter maneuvered his way to the wounded flank man. Disregarding a wound in the leg and under the covering fire of his platoon, he began to assist the wounded man back to his platoon’s position. Protecting the wounded man with his own body, Lieutenant Porter received another wound in the back. Still protecting the wounded man, he reached his platoon’s position where, upon arrival, he received another wound in the back. Although seriously wounded, he still managed to call his platoon sergeant forward, issue instructions on tactical deployment of the platoon and provide information concerning enemy strength and positions before he finally succumbed to his wounds. Lieutenant Porter’s intrepid heroism at the cost of his own life, his inspiring leadership and concern for the welfare of his men were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.