The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Melvin Wayne Finch, United States Army, for meritorious achievement in ground operations against a hostile force while serving as a Prisoner of War in Laos from 2 July 1972 to 22 July 1972. A fellow prisoner who was badly wounded fell from a log bridge while crossing a river and was in the water in a semiconscious state. Captain Find, though suffering greatly from extreme malnutrition, completely disregarded his own safety and greatly risked his life, by jumping into the water and rescuing his companion. Captain Finch’s extraordinary heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military services and reflects great credit on himself and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Bronze Star Medal to Captain Melvin Wayne Finch, United States Army, for meritorious achievement while held Prisoner of War in Southeast Asia during the period 30 March 1972 to 6 September 1972. His ceaseless efforts to conduct himself strictly in accord with the Code of Conduct and policies of the prisoner organization in the difficult conditions of a communist prison clearly demonstrated his loyalty, love of country and professionalism. By his unselfish dedication to duty, he reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Melvin Wayne Finch, United States Army, for outstandingly meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Finch consistently manifested exemplary professionalism and initiative in obtaining outstanding results. His rapid assessment and solution of numerous problems inherent in a combat environment greatly enhanced the allied effectiveness against a determined and aggressive enemy. Despite many adversities, he invariably performed his duties in a resolute and efficient manner. Energetically applying his sound judgment and extensive knowledge, he has contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the United States mission in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.