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 Major (Armor) Mebane G. Stafford, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in Vietnam, on 24 April 1964. As a Senior Advisor to an Armored Group of the armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam, Major Stafford demonstrated professional skill and fortitude when the friendly unit made contact with three hostile companies supported by heavy weapons and recoilless rifles. During the ensuing battle, Major Stafford completely disregarded his own personal safety by exposing himself to the intense gun fire to assist the troop commander in an assault operation against the well-fortified enemy. When the friendly elements began to retreat after a recoilless rifle canister round hit the command carrier, wounding the troop commander and other soldiers, Major Stafford immediately assumed command of the unit, rallied the troops, and exposed himself to an onslaught of gun fire to direct the action. He then personally directed the fires of a platoon of armed helicopters and administered first aid to the wounded troop commander. His courageous conduct, personal example, and determination served as an inspiration to his Vietnamese counterparts and stabilized the defense actions of the unit he was advising. Major Stafford’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.