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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant First Class [then Staff Sergeant] Billy Joe Parrish (ASN: RA-14523630), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Staff Sergeant Parrish distinguished himself by heroic actions on 23 May 1968 while serving as team commander of a five-man combat tracker-dog team for the 2d Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in the Republic of Vietnam. Upon completion of a successful mission of regaining contact with hostile enemy forces, an order was given to withdraw. Sergeant Parrish continued to man his position, which was soon engulfed by enemy firepower, and also within the casualty radius of friendly firepower being used against the enemy. Before he was able to withdraw, he was engulfed in the heavy RPG2 and small arms fire and was mortally wounded. Due to his valorous actions his team and members of the support element were able to withdraw to secure positions, saving many lives. Sergeant Parrish’s personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.