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 Sergeant John Richard Jackson (ASN: RA-11550513), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Jackson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 11 March 1969, while serving as a chief of a howitzer section with Battery A, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 30th Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during an enemy attack. When his unit’s perimeter came under an intense enemy rocket, mortar, and ground attack, Sergeant Jackson exposed himself to the hostile barrage as he left the safety of his bunker and initiated counter fire against the enemy positions. Although he was wounded in the action, Sergeant Jackson refused medical aid and continued to fire his howitzer, neutralizing an enemy mortar position. At this time, Sergeant Jackson was mortally wounded by an impacting enemy mortar round. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.