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 Sergeant First Class Ronald L. Hurwitz, United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant First Class Hurwitz distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 22 May 1969, while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company B, 4th Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force mission in Giao Duc District. As the platoon was moving through a heavily-mined area, one of the mines exploded, wounding a man. Sergeant First Class Hurwitz unhesitatingly advanced through the hazardous area to his fallen comrade’s side. After applying first aid, he moved the casualty to a relatively safe position from which he could be evacuated. Then, with complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant First Class Hurwitz selflessly volunteered to walk point and cleared a path for the rest of the company through the mined area. Later that night, when his platoon came under sudden attack by hostile rocket fire, Sergeant First Class Hurwitz boldly exposed himself to the enemy fire as he moved from position to position, directing the fire of his men. It was through his outstanding leadership and inspiring example that the enemy was overcome without the incurrence of any friendly casualties. Sergeant Hurwitz’s extraordinary heroism in close combat with an armed hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.