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 Specialist Fourth Class Peter F. Riesenberg, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop B, 7th Armored Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry Regiment, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 26 November 1970. Specialist Fourth Class Riesenberg distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as an observer aboard a light observation helicopter. While conducting a reconnaissance mission, the aircraft flying the wing position was downed by enemy fire. After falling through the trees, a white phosphorous grenade exploded in the cockpit of the downed aircraft and it burst into flames. Specialist Fourth Class Riesenberg observed the observer of the downed aircraft attempting to free the trapped pilot from the burning wreckage. Realizing the rescue attempt could not be effected without additional assistance, he instructed his pilot to come to a hover, whereupon he immediately exited his aircraft to assist. Since the nearest insertion point was approximately 100 meters, Specialist Fourth Class Riesenberg braved the enemy infested terrain to come to the aid of the trapped aviator. With his assistance, the two observers managed to free the badly burned aviator from the wreckage. Specialist Fourth Class Riesenberg’s undaunted courage and concern for his fellow aviator were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.