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) Ardenne Stott Carleton, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 12 September 1969. On this date, First Lieutenant Carleton was serving as a platoon leader in Company D, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force operation within an area of known enemy activity. As the friendly force proceeded through the treacherous region, it was suddenly subjected to an intense automatic and small arms fusillade from a squad size Viet Cong unit. Observing a seriously wounded comrade lying in an exposed location, First Lieutenant Carleton unhesitatingly maneuvered through the hostile barrage to the aid of his fallen companion. After administering first aid to the casualty, First Lieutenant Carleton continued to disregard his personal safety as he carried the wounded man to the medical evacuation zone. Returning to the point of heaviest contact, First Lieutenant Carleton directed his men’s suppressive fi with devastating effect and led his platoon to an eventual rout of the aggressor force. His courageous initiative and selfless concern for the welfare of his fellow comrades were instrumental in saving several friendly lives. First Lieutenant Carleton’s unquestionable valor in close combat against a numerically superior hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.