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) Sterling Wayne McColgin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain McColgin distinguished himself while serving as Commanding officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 28 September 1969, Company C was conducting a reconnaissance in force operation southeast of Landing Zone TAPE when they came under heavy automatic weapons fire from an unknown size enemy force. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain McColgin immediately began maneuvering through the contact area, positioning his men and directing their fire. When he learned that the forward observer was a heat casualty, he remained in the area to call in artillery and gunship fire as the other elements withdrew. Repeatedly Captain McColgin exposed himself to pull casualties to safety, and was the last man to leave the contact area, ensuring that all the wounded were taken care of first. Captain McColgin’s exceptional courage, outstanding leadership, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.