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) Robert Lorne Leslie, 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 Leslie distinguished himself on 29 March 1971, while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company A, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during combat operations in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam. While assaulting a well-fortified enemy bunker complex, First Lieutenant Leslie’s platoon came under intense hostile fire. After directing his men into a defensive position, he called for aerial artillery. During the encounter, First Lieutenant Leslie observed two grenades land near one of his men. Rushing to the man, he threw one grenade away and kicked the other away. Although seriously wounded by the explosion of the second grenade, First Lieutenant Leslie remained in the contact area and adjusted aerial artillery fire. Only after he was assured that his platoon was safe would First Lieutenant Leslie allow himself to be evacuated. His actions were instrumental in saving the life of a fellow soldier and inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. First Lieutenant Leslie’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.