(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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) William Norman Ritch, 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. First Lieutenant Ritch distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during Operation Junction City, on 1 April 1966. First Lieutenant Ritch led a counter attack by the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon to protect the 1st battalion 26 Infantry Regiment CP from an enemy penetration of the battalion perimeter by elements of the 271st Regiment of the North Viennese 9th Division during the Battle of Ap Gu. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Ritch, 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.