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 Private First Class Raymond Joseph Matteson, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Matteson distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 16 February 1971 while serving as a Rifleman with Company E, 4th Battalion, 3d Infantry Regiment, 11th Infantry Brigade, 23d Infantry Division. On that date, the unit was involved in a search and clear operation in the Quan Huong Hoa Province, when it came under an intense barrage of mortars, rocket propelled grenades, and small arms fire from an undetermined size enemy force in fortified positions. During the initial phase of the attack, the friendly element suffered many casualties. Walking point for the element, Private First Class Matteson received severe wounds in this assault. The North Vietnamese Army soldiers, believing him dead, began to move between him and the rest of the unit. Despite the excruciating pain, Private First Class Matteson engaged and silenced two of the enemy soldiers while routing the rest, even though he was receiving fire from two fortified bunkers. From his position, he threw a hand grenade which destroyed the enemy emplacement and silenced the aggressor. The North Vietnamese Army soldiers remaining in the bunker attempted to escape, but was eliminated by an accurate volley from Private First Class Matteson. Finally, other members of his unit were able to reach his position and carry him back to an evacuation site. Private First Class Matteson’s timely and courageous actions undoubtedly saved the lives of several soldiers and contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Private First Class Matteson’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.