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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ian R. McPherson (ASN: 0-5342486), United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant McPherson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the vicinity of Kien Giao, Republic of Vietnam, on 25 August 1968, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company A, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Infantry Brigade (Separate). On this day, Lieutenant McPherson was serving as Platoon Leader of the third platoon assigned the mission of searching and clearing the village of Kien Giao and the surrounding area. About half of the platoon was sent to the company command post to pick up supplies. As they neared the command post on their return with the supplies the perimeter began to receive intense small arms fire from the north, south, east, and the west leaving them trapped between the enemy and friendly fires. Without hesitation, Lieutenant McPherson grabbed a radio and began to move through the intense enemy fire to each position directing the fires of his machine guns and M-79 Grenade Launchers. He then called in artillery and gunship support on the enemy positions. Lieutenant McPherson, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved through the enemy fire to the trapped element and continued to coordinate the supporting artillery and gunships and directing the fires of the trapped men. He then directed their fire and movement back to the platoon perimeter. As a result of his aggressiveness and devotion to duty, the attacking enemy force retreated leaving behind thirty-two killed with no friendly casualties. Lieutenant McPherson’s extraordinary heroism was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.