The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (posthumously) to Specialist Four Edgar William Blankenship, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Four Blankenship distinguished himself by valorous actions on the early morning of 13 March 1968, while serving as a Machine Gunner with Troop F, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during a combined mortar and ground attack on his troop’s night defensive perimeter approximately 15 kilometers west of Xuan Loc, Vietnam. Specialist Blankenship immediately manned his M60 machine gun and placed intense, accurate fire upon the enemy forces, which were armed with antitank rockets and automatic weapons. By effectively engaging the insurgents within his zone of fire, Specialist Blankenship insured that the full complement of friendly fire was being directed against the onrushing Viet Cong. Later in the battle, Specialist Blankenship was mortally wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy rocket. Specialist Four Blankenship’s personal bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.