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 Private First Class Dennis Michael McDonnell, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 3d Field Hospital, 68th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class McDonnell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Medical Aidman in support of the United States Army Headquarters Area Command reaction force. When a truck transporting military policemen was ambushed in an alley in the Gia Dinh sector of Saigon, the reaction force immediately rushed to assist the severely wounded survivors. Snipers all around the tiny street where the vehicle had been attacked unleashed continuous volleys of automatic rifle and grenade fire making an approach to the scene extremely perilous. Time and time again the reaction force was driven back by the strafing fusillade. Ultimately two officers prepared to attempt the rescue, and Private McDonnell, although completely unarmed, volunteered to accompany them. As soon as the three reached the stalled vehicle, the scattered Viet Cong snipers opened fire. Private McDonnell had immediately begun administering medical aid to the wounded lying around the truck when a grenade exploded nearby, wounding him and throwing him to the ground. He managed to crawl under the truck as the two officers fought their way out of the alley. For more than five hours, Private McDonnell lay trapped under the vehicle, yet he did what he could to treat those whom he could reach. Finally the officers succeeded in leading the reaction force into the alley, driving the snipers away and evacuating the casualties including the wounded Medic. Private First Class McDonnell’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.