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 Staff Sergeant David M. Collins (ASN: RA-14791183), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 444th Transpiration Company, 1st Logistical Command, while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force. Staff Sergeant Collins distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 18 January 1970, while serving as a convoy commander for a resupply convoy between Qui Nhon and An Khe, in the Republic of Vietnam. Reacting swiftly when the first incoming rounds hit, Sergeant Collins immediately radioed the security net informing them of the enemy ambush. Being unable to establish communications with his forward gun truck, Sergeant Collins deployed his rear gun truck into the kill zone to help clear it. Sergeant Collins then started moving through the kill zone for better control of his vehicles. Not being able to communicate verbally with his drivers because of a language barrier, Sergeant Collins deployed a 5-ton tractor as his lead vehicle and began clearing the kill zone of the vehicles and wounded personnel. Sergeant Collins remained in control of his vehicles and men always making the right decision in the face of enemy fire for the protection of his men and continuance of his mission. Sergeant Collins’ extraordinary heroism in close combat against a numerically superior enemy force, and with total disregard for his own personal safety, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.