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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Clarence Jay Hall, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, on 7 October 1969. On this date, Specialist Fourth Class Hall was serving as a Rifleman with Company C, 1st Battalion, 2d Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force operation in an area of known enemy activity. As the friendly force proceeded through the treacherous region, it was suddenly subjected to an intense automatic weapons, small arms, and rocket-propelled grenade fusillade from an undetermined size insurgent unit. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Specialist Fourth Class Hall immediately exposed himself to the hostile fire and placed a devastating volume of suppressive rounds upon the aggressor emplacements which enabled his comrades to obtain cover. Maneuvering to a more advantageous firing position, Specialist Fourth Class Hall was mortally wounded. His courageous initiative and selfless concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers distinguished Specialist Fourth Class Hall as a soldier of the highest caliber. Specialist Fourth Class Hall’s unquestionable valor while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an insurgent force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.