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 Captain (Infantry) Charles Paddock Otstott (ASN: 0-90996), United States Army, for gallantry In action against a hostile force, while serving as Company Commander of Company A, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 502d Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, In action on 27 September 1967 near Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam. During a ground assault on a well-fortified enemy position, Captain Otstott personally organized a small element in an attempt to make a flanking maneuver against the enemy. Although under an intense volume of fire, Captain Otstott, on numerous occasions, fully exposed himself to the vicious hostile fire in order to coordinate the supporting fires and direct fire of his men. When he was unable to observer the air support being given, Captain Otstott, with complete disregard for his own safety, jumped from his covered position and moved to an exposed piece of high ground where he could better direct the air support. Captain Otstott was almost immediately detected by the enemy assault element. Again without concern for his own safety, Captain Otstott stood up, fully exposed to the enemy fire, placed extremely effective fire into the ranks of the oncoming enemy, killing two insurgents and forcing the remainder to pull back. Captain Otstott remained in his exposed position until the air strikes had been completed. Captain Otstott outstanding display of gallantry In action and his devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.