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 Gregory F. Turcotte (ASN: US-56464127), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Private First Class Turcotte distinguished himself by heroic actions on 4 March 1969, while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a reconnaissance in force operation, Company C came under an intense enemy attack. During the initial contact, several men were wounded and pinned down by heavy enemy automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenade fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private Turcotte ran forward through the deadly hostile fire in an effort to reach the wounded men. After locating the casualties, Private Turcotte personally picked up a man and carried him back to safety. Exposing himself again to the deadly fire, Private Turcotte returned to the point of contact, where he provided covering fire for the rest of the men to be evacuated. His valorous actions were responsible for saving several lives. Private Turecotte’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, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.