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 Staff Sergeant Rolland Frederick Clark (ASN: RA-12742594), 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 10 April 1969, Sergeant Clark was serving as a Team Leader with Company I (Ranger), 75th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, on a long range reconnaissance patrol 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 and small arms fusillade from an undetermined size insurgent unit. Acting with tactical deliberation, Sergeant Clark provided effective covering fire which enabled his team to withdraw to a pre-designated landing zone. Repeatedly exposing himself to the hostile barrage, Sergeant Clark continued to disregard his personal safety as he provided rear security for his retreating comrades. Upon arriving at the landing zone, Sergeant Clark deployed his men into strategic positions and directed their suppressive fire with devastating effect while simultaneously adjusting supporting artillery barrages upon the insurgents. Adjusting the impacting rounds to within 50 meters of his own position, his dauntless determination inflicted maximum losses on the aggressor forces until the aerial extraction helicopters arrived. His courageous initiative and exemplary professionalism reverted possible disaster into a triumphant rout of the enemy unit. Staff Sergeant Clark’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, his unit, the 1st Infantry Division and the United States Army.