The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class George Carl Bigley (ASN: 16002566), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations, on 3 January 1965, while serving as a Light Weapons Infantry Advisor to the 35th Ranger Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Bigley was accompanying a Vietnamese Company of a task force which was returning from a convoy escort mission through enemy-held terrain when the company was ambushed by two Viet Cong companies. As the task element was thrown into confusion by the sudden attack, Sergeant Bigley bravely exposed himself to the enemy gunfire to reorganize the hesitant Vietnamese troops. Then, with complete disregard for his own safety, he moved through open terrain under withering gunfire in an attempt to rally the soldiers and to encourage them to establish a line and return the fire. Throughout this fierce engagement with the Viet Cong, he continued his courageous efforts until mortally wounded. His fortitude, indomitable courage, and determination inspired the Rangers to take action which enabled them to return to the task force. Sergeant Bigley’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military services.