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 Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) William Charles Haponski (ASN: 0-73713), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, ON 28 March 1969. On this date, Lieutenant Colonel Haponski was serving as Squadron Commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, with his unit at Fire Support Base Doc when the friendly encampment was suddenly subjected to a vicious mortar, rocket, and small arms barrage. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he braved a hail of hostile rounds atop his armored vehicle as he directed counterfires on the enemy. Ignoring the insurgent fusillade raking the area, Lieutenant Colonel Haponski simultaneously directed his maneuvering elements to counterattack and supervise the evacuation of casualties from the perilous area. His courageous initiative and bold determination inspired his men and contributed to the successful outcome of the encounter. Lieutenant Colonel Haponski’s unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.