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) George L. Brown (ASN: 0-5329050), United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Brown distinguished himself by conspicuous heroism on 11 November 1967 while serving as a member of Company D (Provisional), 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate) on Operation MacArthur in the vicinity of Dak To, Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Brown was a rifle platoon leader in a task force composed of Companies C and D, 1st Battalion, 503d Infantry when they came under vicious enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire. He immediately established his perimeter in the area of heaviest contact. He exposed himself constantly to heavy fire to insure that his perimeter would withstand the impending ground assaults. For seven and one half hours, he could be seen darting from one position to another, directing fire, shouting instructions and encouragement to the troops. During the contact, his company commander was mortally wounded. Lieutenant Brown assumed command and personally led his elements to the high ground two hundred meters away. Inspired by his example, his men rallied behind him and secured their objective. Upon reaching his destination, he once again exposed himself to blistering enemy fire to insure that his position was secure. He then personally directed the evacuation of the wounded and supervised their protection on the landing zone. Lieutenant Brown’s bravery, unfailing leadership and decisiveness were in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.