Navy Federal Credit Union

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 (Field Artillery) Charles H. Hamlett (ASN: 0-5426932), United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Hamlett distinguished himself by exceptional gallantry in action on the morning of 31 August 1968, at Landing Zone ACTION on Highway 19 west of An Kha, Vietnam, while serving as a Platoon Leader in Battery B, 4th Battalion, 60th Artillery. Landing Zone ACTION came under a heavy North Vietnamese Army mortar, recoilless rifle and automatic weapons attack. Lieutenant Hamlett, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, dashed from his command post to one of his guns. He was seriously wounded in the back, neck, arms and legs. However, he returned to the command post under a heavy barrage of mortars and automatic weapons fire to get a radio in order to call a medevac. Upon returning to the gun, he placed the wounded squad leader underneath the vehicle, called the medevac and continued to direct accurate fire from his guns. Throughout the attack Lieutenant Hamlett inspired and reassured his men, who were wounded less seriously than he. When the medevac helicopter arrived, he refused to board the aircraft until all members of his platoon had been safely taken aboard. Lieutenant Hamlett’s courage, heroism and ability to perform in spite of pain were most assuredly an inspiration to all his men. His gallantry in action has earned for him the respect and admiration of all concerned. Lieutenant Hamlett’s valorous performance was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received