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 Private First Class John Michael Dalton (ASN: RA-16832512), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force. Private First Class Dalton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 21 November 1966, while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during a search and destroy mission near the Cambodian border in the Republic of Vietnam. When his platoon was attacked by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force, Private First Class Dalton immediately set up his machine gun and personally repelled several enemy assaults with his accurate fire. Although wounded twice by the intense hostile fire, he remained steadfast. His courageous and aggressive action was instrumental in enabling a supporting element to move into the area and drive out the North Vietnamese force. Private First Class Dalton’s outstanding display of personal bravery and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.