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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Roderick A. Stewart (ASN: 0-5336853), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force. First Lieutenant Stewart distinguished himself as an aviator of the 220th Reconnaissance Airplane Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, on a combat operation to assist beleaguered friendly units in the demilitarized zone on 25 October 1968. He evaded extremely intensive hostile ground fires to direct an armor unit into a strategic position in support of two friendly companies which had become separated and which were in heavy enemy contact. Accurately marking the enemy positions, he directed the armor firepower against them, destroying several automatic weapons positions and killing many enemy personnel. Departing only long enough to refuel his aircraft, he remained over the friendly units for five hours, assisting in the direction of artillery, armor, and tactical airstrikes against the enemy. Through his valiant efforts the friendly forces were able to regroup, advance on the enemy, and inflict great damage upon him. First Lieutenant Stewart demonstrated professional competence, calm courage and devotion to duty seldom found. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.