(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 (Armor) Raoul Henri Alcala, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Alcala distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Commander of Troop A, 3d Squadron, 5th Cavalry, 9th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during the Battle of Ap Bau Bang II, on 19 and 20 March 1967. On that date, an estimated 750 Communist soldiers made a quick strike in an attempt to overrun the 300 Americans and their armor and artillery position 31 miles north of Saigon. Captain Alcala led the men of his armored troop in their fierce and stubborn resistance that turned back the enemy assault and left the bodies of 223 enemy soldiers on the battlefield. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Alcala, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.