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 Captain (Infantry) Charles W. Porter (ASN: OF-118042), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Porter distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 3 December 1968 while serving as Commanding Officer of Company B, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission near Dong Xoai, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force, Captain Porter, realizing that the enemy were firing at the radios and anyone near them, took the radios and moved to a position where no one else would be endangered. From his exposed position, Captain Porter directed artillery fire on the enemy positions. He then directed mortar fire to within ten meters from his position and at the same time he stood up and directed an orderly withdrawal from the heavy contact area. Captain Porter’s gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.