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) Eldon Howard Spradling (ASN: 0-96211), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Captain Spradling distinguished himself by heroic actions on 3 September 1968, while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While returning to the Dau Tieng Base Camp, Company C made repeated enemy contact along the route. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Spradling exposed himself to the deadly Viet Cong fire as he directed the fire of his men onto enemy positions. When a track was disabled by rocket-propelled-grenade fire, Captain Spradling organized a mission to recover the vehicle. He insured that the injured were cared for and evacuated to safety. Throughout the period of movement by the element, Captain Spradling responded to the aggressors and forced their retreat. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the defeat of the insurgent force and success of the mission. Captain Spradling’s personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, United States Army.