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 Staff Sergeant Claude William McBride, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam, on 17 August 1963, and serving as an Advisor to a Combat Patrol of Vietnamese irregular forces. As the only American advisor in the lead element of this patrol, Sergeant McBride demonstrated courage, strategy, and professional competence which insured the success of the patrol’s mission. When the change in terrain presented the probability of an ambush by hostile forces, he directed the point element to advance further ahead of the main body of the patrol to avert a surprise attack. Immediately upon completion of this move, the point element with Sergeant McBride in the third position, was attacked by five to seven insurgents with small arms fire from a distance of approximately twenty meters. Then, with fortitude and determination, he exposed himself to the direct line of the gun fire from a distance of ten meters and led the members of the point element in a charge which forced the insurgents to abandon the ambush site and retreat. His brave action, personal example, and deep concern for his Vietnamese counterparts prevented heavy casualties and inspired the Combat Patrol to pursue their efforts in the defense of their homeland. Sergeant McBride’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.