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 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second 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 15 March 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 a barrage of fire from a well camouflaged enemy bunker complex, Captain Harrington courageously moved forward through the fusillade and took up an exposed position to pinpoint the hostile emplacements with tracer fire so that gunships could engage them. Disregarding his own safety, he remained in the hazardous position and adjusted artillery onto the enemy bunkers, at the same time directing the evacuation of casualties his unit had sustained during the battle. 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.