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 Warrant Officer (WO-1) Richard J. Satterfield (ASN: W-3157895), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 195th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 October 1968. Warrant Officer Satterfield distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions when his aircraft crashed into a landing zone near Dong Tam. Disregarding intense small arms and mortar fire, Warrant Officer Satterfield, although wounded himself, pulled his wounded crew away from the burning ship. Directing them to a relatively safe position, he dashed through the hail of enemy tracers back to his aircraft to retrieve valuable equipment. After returning, he again ran through the enemy fire to retrieve more necessary equipment. Warrant Officer Satterfield administered first aid to his wounded crew members and fought off the enemy for six hours, until he was evacuated by helicopter. Through his courageous performance, he saved the lives of his crew members and prevented the loss of valuable military equipment to the enemy. 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.