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) Waldo Drake Freeman, Jr. (ASN: OF-101444), 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 16 June 1968. On this date, Captain Freeman was serving as Commanding Officer of Company B, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, with his unit which was sent to reinforce another beleaguered friendly force three kilometers south of Di An. As he fearlessly led his elements into the area of contact, they were subjected to intense fire from well-fortified enemy emplacements. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Freeman maneuvered through the hail of hostile rounds from man to man shouting instructions and giving encouragement. He repeatedly exposed himself to the Viet Cong barrages in his tireless effort to overcome the insurgents and was wounded by both shrapnel and small arms fire. Ignoring his painful injury, he continued directing his elements in the evacuation of the other unit’s casualties until contact was broken. His exemplary courage, outstanding professional leadership, and selfless concern for his comrades were instrumental in saving many lives, and significantly contributed toward the successful accomplishment of his company’s mission. Captain Freeman’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.