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 Staff Sergeant Jammie Van Franklin (ASN: RA-19470836), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Company B, 39th Engineer Battalion (Combat) on 3 July 1967 in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Franklin distinguished himself by heroic action and personal bravery while serving as a squad leader of a squad engaged in providing security for a platoon working on a road project when a large Viet Cong force attacked their position from two sides. Unhesitatingly Sergeant Franklin began moving through the increasingly heavy enemy fire to direct the fire of his men. While moving between positions, he saw that one of his men had been wounded and was unable to return the fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Franklin headed toward the wounded man but was forced back by the intensity of the hostile fire. With resolute determination, he poured suppressive fire into the enemy position and again rushed to the aid of his wounded comrade and, while still exposed to the enemy fire, carried him to a secure area where he applied necessary first aid. Throughout the ensuing battle, Sergeant Franklin personally directed the retaliatory fire of his men while repeatedly exposing himself to intense hostile small arms and machine gun fire. His actions were in the utmost regard for the men he served with and demonstrated a profound ability to function in an outstanding manner at a time when called upon to risk his life. Staff Sergeant Franklin’s unquestionable display of heroism, devotion to duty, and unselfish concern for the lives of his fellow soldiers in close combat against a numerically superior hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, Task Force Oregon, and the United States Army.