(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 (Armor) Rhesa Hawkins Barksdale (ASN: OF-107523), 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 Barksdale distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Executive Officer of Troop C, 1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment (First Regiment of Dragoons), 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in action 3 December 1967, during a very early morning attack by Viet Cong troops on the Troop Basecamp in the “Pineapple Forest” north of Tam Ky, Vietnam. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Barksdale were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.