The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Charles John Cox (NSN: 0-641594), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 June 1968. Lieutenant Cox, serving as Commander River Assault Division 111, was leading a column of assault craft with embarked infantry down the Kinh Giao Canal in Kien Hoa Province when Viet Cong main force elements ambushed the boats from heavily fortified positions in the dense undergrowth on both banks. Well armed with recoilless rifles, automatic weapons and rocket grenades, the ambushers poured a steady barrage into the boats. Lieutenant Cox’s boat was hit by recoilless rifle fire in the early minutes of the fight; six crewmen were wounded and Lieutenant Cox received shrapnel wounds in the face and eyes. Although partially blinded in one eye and suffering from pain, Lieutenant Cox quickly assessed the ambush and directed his units in establishing fire superiority with steady, controlled, deadly-accurate suppressive fire. Although the ambushers continued to direct rocket and recoilless rifle fire at the assault craft, their fire was disorganized and erratic, and no additional units were hit. After suppressing the ambush, Lieutenant Cox concentrated on supervising the evacuation of the seriously wounded and the redistribution of his personnel to keep all boats operationally ready. Although suffering acute blurred vision as a result of his wounds, Lieutenant Cox refused medical evacuation and all but minor treatment, and insisted upon remaining in command of his division. As the River Assault craft moved out again, the enemy launched another heavy ambush from both banks. Under Lieutenant Cox’s calm, skillful direction, the boats quickly gained the initiative and suppressed the fire with not friendly casualties. Several hours later, Lieutenant Cox’s assault craft was again ambushed from both banks and from sampans to the front of the column. In the fierce, close quarters battle which ensued, Lieutenant Cox directed a withering hail of 20-mm., 40-mm., .30 caliber and .50 caliber fire into the enemy at a range of 20 to 25 meters, which silenced the Viet Cong and destroyed the enemy sampans. Lieutenant Cox continued to direct his units until the successful completion of the operation on the following day, and only then did he submit to proper medical attention for his eye wounds. Lieutenant Cox’s outstanding leadership and rare tactical acumen contributed greatly to the success of the operation. His outstanding professionalism, sense of responsibility and personal bravery were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.