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 Captain (Infantry) Evan L. Owen, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force, while serving with the 235th Aviation Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, on 23 March 1972, in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Owen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while performing his duties as Operations Officer with a forward element of an Allied weapons company. When Khe Sanh became the target of an enemy artillery and mortar barrage, he immediately saw to the safety of his men, moving the men into the bunkers throughout the area. With the incoming artillery and mortar rounds falling in the immediate vicinity, he returned to the sleeping area to gather up radios, weapons and ammunition. With full knowledge of the dangers at hand, he returned several times to recover valuable equipment. Captain Owen set about to establish a perimeter of defense using the personnel he had available. During the following hours he made numerous trips between the defensive positions insuring that they were both properly manned and tactically sound. On each of the trips, he again exposed himself to the enemy fire. His gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.