The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Edward M. Rutherford, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Rutherford distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 April 1970, while serving as a Reconnaissance Sergeant with Troop C, 3d Squadron, 5th Armored Cavalry Regiment, on a blocking force mission in South Vietnam. During the early morning hours the night defensive position of Troop C came under an attack by an enemy sapper unit reinforced by a North Vietnamese Army infantry company employing automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades. During the initial attack the command vehicle was eliminated by an enemy rocket propelled grenade and Sergeant Rutherford moved to various positions to guide and lead his men in repulsing the attackers. When artillery support became available, he directed four fire missions which provided high explosive rounds and much needed illumination. At this point several tracks were hit by enemy rounds, and with total disregard for his safety, Sergeant Rutherford climbed on a burning tank and guided one man to safety and pulled another from the vehicle. His courage and leadership contributed immeasurably to the successful defense of the unit’s perimeter. Sergeant Rutherford’s gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.