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 [then Specialist Fourth Class] Kenton Elwood Henninger (ASN: US-51834525), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Henninger distinguished himself while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 6 March 1969, Company A was conducting a search and clear operation in the Chu Prong Mountain area, Republic of Vietnam. At approximately 1615 hours, Sergeant Henninger’s squad came under intense enemy fire from an estimated enemy platoon entrenched in bunkers. Sergeant Henninger was hit in the leg in the initial burst of fire. Ignoring his wound, he immediately placed a heavy and accurate base of fire on the closest enemy positions, enabling the rest of his squad to find cover. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued to place effective fire upon the enemy until he was wounded in both arms and could no longer fire his weapon. Despite his wounds and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued to expose himself to enemy fire in an attempt to draw fire away from his squad and was mortally wounded. Sergeant Henninger’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 Sates Army.