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) Ralph Bonner Garretson, Jr., 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 Garretson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the 3d Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy on 31 January 1968. Captain Garretson took charge of an armored unit in support of a ground assault on the town of Dong Lack. In spite of the intensity of the fire and the ferocity of the enemy resistance, Captain Garretson maintained his position and continued to direct effective fire on the enemy positions. Throughout the action he continually exposed himself to enemy fire in directing his own fires, evacuated the wounded, and even towed one of his disabled vehicles to a position where it could assist in the attack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Garretson, 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.