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 Specialist Fourth Class Horace Lee Mitchell, Jr. (ASN: RA-15895928), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Mitchell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 10 January 1969, while serving as a machine gunner with Company A, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission in Phuoc Long Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a well fortified enemy force and the Company Commander was pinned down, Specialist Fourth Class Mitchell, although in an exposed position, refused an order to withdraw as he placed a devastating volume of suppressive fire upon the enemy emplacements. Despite being wounded during the action, Specialist Fourth Class Mitchell continued to engage the insurgents. Only after his Commanding Officer and the rest of his unit reached a covered position did Specialist Mitchell withdraw and submit to medical attention. His heavy firepower undoubtedly prevented many friendly casualties. Specialist Fourth Class Mitchell’s gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.