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 Specialist Fourth Class Barry Tyson Burnite, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 17 November 1965, in Ia Drang Valley, Republic of South Vietnam, while serving as a Machine Gunner in 2d Platoon, Company A, 2d Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). During the Battle of Landing Zone Albany in the Ia Drang Valley, Specialist Burnite was wounded early in the attack but continued to fight. Throughout the battle, he remained in the fight to redistribute ammunition, provide first aid to his wounded comrades, and rally his squad to attack the North Vietnamese forces. Specialist Burnite returned fire while continuously exposing himself to intense enemy fire. He defied enemy attacks directed at him to employ his machine gun with deadly results allowing other Soldiers to seek cover and continue to fight. As forces advanced, Specialist Burnite joined a group of three other Soldiers and subsequently flanked advancing enemy soldiers to clear an area in front of his platoon and reduce attacks on the command post. As enemy forces concentrated on his position, outnumbering his comrades, Specialist Burnite stayed behind to cover his unit’s withdrawal and was mortally wounded. The gallantry displayed by Specialist Fourth Class Burnite was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 7th Cavalry, and the United States Army.