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) James Kite Hackett (ASN: OF-107712), 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 Hackett distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 22 August 1967, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company D, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a search and destroy mission near Hoai An, Republic of Vietnam. Upon locating an area newly obstructed with punji stakes, First Lieutenant Hackett, with three of his men, moved forward through the booby trapped area to locate the enemy encampment. First Lieutenant Hackett soon found the Viet Cong camp and after determining their strength, personally led the attack against the hostile position with his three man element. In close combat he killed one enemy soldier, captured another, and seriously wounded a third. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.