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 Malcolm Davis (ASN: US-54511012), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force, on 2 February 1969, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Sergeant Davis was serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, on an ambush patrol five miles southwest of Ben Cat. As the friendly force proceeded through a region of dense vegetation, his lead element sustained two casualties and was pinned down by a vicious claymore mine, automatic weapons, and rocket-propelled grenade fusillade. Sergeant Davis immediately deployed his men and crawled forward to assist the wounded. After administering first aid to the injured personnel, he disregarded his personal safety and carried them through the hail of hostile rounds to a more secure location. Realizing his machinegunner had nearly expended his ammunition, Sergeant Davis moved to the rear and returned with the needed ammunition. Employing his knowledge of military tactics, he led his element forward to within ten meters of the insurgents and directed their devastating fire which enabled the casualties to be evacuated from the perilous area. When his squad was instructed to withdraw, Sergeant Davis braved the aggressor barrage and put forth suppressive fire which allowed his men to break contact. His exemplary courage, professional leadership, and heroic determination significantly contributed to the successful outcome of the encounter and were instrumental in saving friendly lives. Staff Sergeant Davis’ unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.