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 Specialist Fifth Class Wayne Carl Simmons (ASN: RA-11369471), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile enemy while serving with the 57th Medical Detachment, in action on 1 April 1965, in the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Specialist Simmons was serving as Crew Chief aboard a UH-1B helicopter ambulance participating in an air evacuation of critically wounded personnel. Upon landing, the aircraft came under intense enemy fire, and without regard for his own personal safety, Specialist Simmons leaped to the ground and raced to the wounded personnel, firing as he assisted the wounded in reaching his aircraft. As the helicopter took off, Specialist Simmons remained exposed in the open doorway, delivering suppressive fire on the enemy positions, which allowed the helicopter to make a safe departure. During the next medical evacuation his aircraft landed in the battle zone barely 20 yards from the line of fire to evacuate a seriously wounded U.S. Advisor. Although enemy fire was very heavy in the area and mortar rounds were exploding near the helicopter, Specialist Simmons dashed across the open terrain to administer aid to the wounded soldier. It was during this unselfish act that he lost his life. Specialist Simmons’ conspicuous gallantry was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.