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 Captain (Infantry) John Edward King, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations on 11 December 1964, as a Senior Advisor to a Battalion of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Captain King was accompanying a Vietnamese unit which was proceeding by truck convoy to relieve an outpost that was under enemy attack when the friendly unit was suddenly ambushed by a superior Viet Cong force of battalion strength. As the counter assault was launched, Captain King completely disregarded his own safety and immediately placed himself in a forward position to advise the battalion commander. During the deployment of the friendly forces, he demonstrated indomitable courage by repeatedly exposing himself to the intense enemy small arms and mortar fire to assist, encourage, and advise the defenders. When wounded by mortar fire, he ignored his own injury and remained in the action to advise his counterparts. Throughout the battle that lasted two hours, he demonstrated perseverance and fortitude, and continued his courageous efforts until the friendly group was forced to withdraw. Captain King’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military services.