(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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) John Irvin Alger, 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 Alger distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam as an Advisor to South Vietnamese Airborne Forces, in action against the enemy on 7 August 1967. During an enemy attack on the South Vietnamese forces with whom he was serving as an Advisor, Captain Alger directed Army air strikes while perilously close to the front line. Holding his position near the front line while calling in the target areas for the air strikes against an attacking North Vietnamese regiment, Captain Alger instilled courage in the hears of the defending South Vietnamese troops at the risk of his own life. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Alger, 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.