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 Specialist Fourth Class Ken G. Larcher, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop A, 4th Armored Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 September 1970. Specialist Fourth Class Larcher distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as door gunner on a command and control aircraft during combat operations in Vi Thanh Province. During a visual reconnaissance of a suspected enemy base camp in a heavily wooded area, the lead scout was hit by intense automatic weapons fire which caused it to crash and burst into flames approximately twenty meters from the enemy bunker complex. As the command and control aircraft descended to extract the downed crew, Specialist Larcher placed a continuous stream of suppressive fire into the enemy positions with his machinegun. The downed aircraft was still taking fire from the enemy positions as the command and control aircraft landed. Touching down approximately fifteen meters from the burning aircraft, Specialist Larcher leaped from his aircraft and ran to assist the downed crew. Braving enemy automatic weapons fire in the treeline approximately twenty meters away, he reached the burning aircraft and discovered the scout observer was pinned in and the pilot was lying next to the aircraft, both seriously wounded. Despite the intense heat from the spreading fire, Specialist Larcher immediately began working with relentless determination to free the trapped observer. The burning aircraft was heavily loaded with fuel, grenades, and ammunition, and was about to explode at any time. Despite all the dangers threatening him, Specialist Larcher continued to work until the observer was freed and then helped carry the two seriously wounded men to the command and control aircraft. As his aircraft departed, the burning wreckage exploded and was completely destroyed. Specialist Larcher’s unfailing courage, relentless determination and calmness under fire were invaluable in the success of this perilous life saving rescue mission. 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.