(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 (Infantry) James Ken Worthen, 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 Worthen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company D, 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against the enemy in 1969. While leading his men in a search and clear mission near Tan Ky, First Lieutenant Worthen’s platoon was suddenly hit with heavy enemy fire and the lead element was cut off. First Lieutenant Worthen maneuvered a squad forward and, behind the protective fire, he directed his men to follow him to the location where the extreme front of his element was trapped and had casualties. After getting the wounded to safety without further casualties, First Lieutenant Worthen led his men forward again in an effort to destroy the enemy. He was wounded during the advance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Worthen, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.