(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 Thomas Baird, 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 Baird distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Platoon Leader in an Infantry Company of the 46th Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in action against the enemy in 1969. First Lieutenant Baird crawled forward under fire, destroyed two enemy emplacements, and rallied his platoon to overrun a third. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Baird, 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.