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 Major (Field Artillery) Exequiel R. Sevilla, Jr. (ASN: OF-108294), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 1 February 1968 while serving as Battalion Advisor, 61st Artillery Battalion, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. On that date, Viet Cong forces surrounded the nearby 4th Marine Battalion, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Although Viet Cong elements were pouring increasingly heavy fires into his are, Major Sevilla rallied his Vietnamese comrades to return accurate fire on the enemy. The advisor to the Marines later described the support as well coordinated, accurate and instrumental in defeating the insurgents. In an effort to further assist the beleaguered unit, Major Sevilla exposed himself to enemy fire on several occasions as he effectively directed helicopter gunships and other close air support systems on insurgent positions. Later, when the battalion’s defense was penetrated, the unit was able to continue firing missions, while fighting off Viet Cong forces within their own compound. During this time, Major Sevilla helped man a howitzer, firing it in a direct fire role, breaking the back of the attack and spearheading the friendly forces to ultimate victory. Major Sevilla’s conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.