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) Jon Willard Blades, III (ASN: OF-107540), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Captain Blades distinguished himself by heroic actions on 6 June 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer with Company A, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a combat operation, Company A came in contact with a large enemy force. During the initial exchange of fire, an armored personnel carrier was struck by a rocket propelled grenade, wounding the driver. Although subjected to a deadly barrage of fire, Captain Blades, with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself as he moved through the enemy kill zone and evacuated the injured man to safety. As the unit advanced on the insurgents, it sustained several casualties. After evacuating all the wounded to the rear, Captain Blades moved from position to position directing his men’s fire on the enemy. While a heavy base of fire was being placed on the hostile positions, Captain Blades led a successful assault on the insurgents. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the enemy force. Captain Blades’ bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.