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 Sergeant Ronald Vention Hacker (ASN: US-51835645), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Hacker distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 3 April 1969, the battalion was involved in counterinsurgency operations in the Cu Don Valley complex west of Kontum City. Upon leaving their night position they were immediately taken under heavy enemy fire. At the initial contact, four men in the point squad were wounded. Sergeant Hacker, with complete disregard for his own safety, volunteered to lead reinforcements into the battle area. Using his own initiative, he instructed his men to carry enough ammunition to resupply the forward element. Then, through the effective use of tactical fire and movement, he successfully joined the embattled point squad. Exhibiting exceptional ability and coolness while under heavy fire he then maneuvered his men to positions from which they engaged the enemy with accurate and effective cover fire, allowing the wounded to be evacuated from the area. Seeing one of his men wounded by the intense hostile fire, Sergeant Hacker rushed to his side. As he attempted to carry his wounded comrade from the battle field, he himself was mortally wounded. Sergeant Hacker’s personal bravery, determination and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.