The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Larry Richard Dewey (ASN: 0-86369431), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving as a Pilot with the 92d Assault Helicopter Squadron, 10th Combat Aviation Battalion, 17th Combat Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade, on 24 May 1971. Captain Dewey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a lift helicopter while on an emergency re-supply mission to Fire Base 5, northwest of Pleiku. Hundreds of enemy soldiers had started an offensive movement against the fire base during the early morning hours. The enemy, utilizing mortars, rockets, and heavy automatic weapons initiated an attack on the small hilltop. They were beaten back only after inflicting heavy casualties. The Allied troops defending the small base camp were running low on critically needed supplies. Captain Dewey was notified of the urgent need for a re-supply mission and immediately volunteered to fly into the besieged base camp. Briefing his crew and taking all necessary precautions, Captain Dewey made his approach into the landing zone. Almost immediately, Captain Dewey’s aircraft came under mortar and heavy automatic weapons fire from every quadrant. Only through fearless determination and expert flying ability was Captain Dewey able to direct his aircraft to the landing pad and off-load the urgently needed supplies. Calling upon his professional skill and knowledge, Captain Dewey departed Fire Base 5 and returned to the safety of Dak To. In the early afternoon the call for more ammunition and medical supplies was made. Captain Dewey, knowing the enemy situation and the impossible odds, again volunteered to fly the re-supply mission. Captain Dewey carefully pinpointed the known enemy positions for gunship suppression during the insertion and devised a plan of attack. While on short final, 300 meters away and 20 feet above the ground, Captain Dewey’s aircraft suddenly exploded. Upon the explosion, the aircraft rolled to the right and struck the ground in an inverted position. In the act of completing his last mission, Captain Dewey displayed exemplary concern for his fellow soldiers and extreme professionalism. His gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.