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 Berard Harrington (ASN: OF-10477), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Harrington distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions during the period 1 February to 2 February 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer, Company D, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force mission in Long An Province. After his company came under intense hostile fire as they were inserted to complete the encirclement of a large enemy force, Captain Harrington courageously exposed himself to the fusillade to personally maneuver his company into effective positions. Through his valiant efforts, the encirclement was completed and the hostile force was dealt a devastating defeat. Although wounded early in the action, he refused evacuation until the battle was over. Captain Harrington’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against an armed hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

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 a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) John Berard Harrington (ASN: OF-10477), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Harrington distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 May 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer, Company D, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force mission in Long An Province. When his company came under intense enemy automatic weapons fire from well-entrenched positions, Captain Harrington led his men in several assaults, but had to pull back each time because of the enemy’s tremendous fire power. At dush he set his men up along the perimeter of the battlefield. Receiving mortar and small arms fire throughout the night, Captain Harrington called in gunship strikes within 10 meters of his position in order to prevent the enemy from escaping. At dawn he led another assault. Exposing himself to the brunt of the enemy fire, he remained in an open position throughout the battle in order to direct most effectively the maneuvering and fire of his company, with the end result that the enemy was crushed. Captain Harrington’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against an armed hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.