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 R. Schell, Jr. (ASN: 0-533217), 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 Schell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 21 July 1968, while serving as Commanding Officer with Company C, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a search and clear mission in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force and sustained several casualties, Captain Schell exposed himself to the intense hostile force as he moved to a forward fighting position to assist in evacuating the wounded personnel. Disregarding his own safety, Captain Schell then called in and adjusted artillery fire on the hostile position. After the air controller arrived, Captain Schell again exposed himself to the enemy fire to mark the insurgent’s positions with smoke and jet air strikes. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.