The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Albert W. Keller (MCSN: 0-59625), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Special Landing Force as an Advisor/Observer attached to the First Platoon, Company A, Fifth Reconnaissance Battalion on 15 September 1966 in connection with operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Dong Ha, Republic of Vietnam. During the Amphibious Operations DECKHOUSE IV, Major Keller’s platoon was inserted into enemy controlled territory to patrol a 2,000 by 5,500 meter area covered by dense thorn and vine scrub. The patrol had moved two-thirds of the way across the area when the advance scouting party, investigating suspected enemy activity, came under heavy small arms and automatic weapons fire as it made contact with a numerically superior North Vietnamese force of company size. Although the reconnaissance patrol had been directed to proceed with caution, avoiding enemy contact if possible, there was no choice but to engage the enemy in order to prevent them from conducting a surprise attack on the remainder of the platoon. In the initial burst of fire, two of the enemy were killed and the rest dispersed, returning rapid and accurate fire. In a short period of time, one-third of the platoon had been killed or wounded, including the Platoon Commander, who was killed, and the Platoon Sergeant, who was seriously wounded. Reacting quickly, Major Keller took charge of the unit, reorganized it, directed re-distribution of ammunition, re-established defensive positions and controlled return fire on the enemy positions. Although under constant deadly enemy fire, he disregarded his own safety to call in daringly close air and artillery support, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy. When a flight of six helicopters arrived to extract the unit, he again exposed himself to intensive fire to establish radio contact with the flight and guide them into the area. The initial landing attempt was unsuccessful. With great skill and determination, Major Keller effectively directed the platoon’s deployment and firepower, facilitating the landing, evacuation of the wounded and eventual extraction of the beleaguered unit. Although he had known the men of the platoon for only two days and was thus handicapped by a lack of detailed knowledge of their capabilities, he aggressively provided the necessary leadership to preserve the platoon’s integrity during this extremely hazardous situation. His prompt action, perseverance in making contact with the helicopters and guiding them into the zone, and exceptional presence of mind under fire were an inspiration to his men. By his heroic actions, professional skill, resourcefulness and initiative, Major Keller undoubtedly saved the unit from complete devastation and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.