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) Gary Perkins Graves (ASN: 0-83250), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Graves distinguished himself by gallantry in action on 11 February 1966 while serving as Advisor to the 2d Troop, 2d Armored Cavalry Squadron, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. During the course of an offensive operation, the unit was ordered to attack a heavily entrenched Viet Cong Battalion. Although wounded during the initial assault, Captain graves maintained his position while advising his counterpart on the methods of employment of crew served weapons and on maneuvering tactics. Disregarding his personal safety, Captain Graves exposed himself to the intense hostile fire while supervising the medical evacuation of a wounded American advisor. His brave actions and personal example inspired the attacking force to continue to close with the enemy until the communists had suffered so many casualties that they were forced to withdraw. Captain Graves’ conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.