The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Don C. Chunn, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam, on 2 April 1964. When a helicopter was downed in the Republic of Vietnam as a result of hostile gunfire, Captain Chunn voluntarily flew into the combat zone to determine whether or not it could be repaired and flown out to a secure area. Although his aircraft became the target of sniper fire as soon as it landed, he quickly organized a squad of Vietnamese Marines who were in the area to secure the perimeter. Upon reaching the position of the downed ship where the insurgents were attacking, he completely disregarded his personal safety by leading the squad of Vietnamese Marines in clearing the force landing area which was under constant small arms fire from snipers. Although he was wounded by shrapnel from mortar fire, he continued to direct the operation until the area was sufficiently cleared to allow a maintenance aircraft and crew to land and repair the disabled helicopter. His fortitude, determination, and courageous actions afforded the maintenance crew protection against the enemy gunfire, prevented the destruction of valuable equipment by the insurgents, and resulted in the salvage of the damaged aircraft. Captain Chunn’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.