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 Staff Sergeant Larry L. Walcott (ASN: RA-14700676), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Walcott distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 21 October 1967, while serving as a machine gunner with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) during an aerial reconnaissance mission near Phan Thiet, Republic of Vietnam. When his aircraft was downed in enemy controlled territory, Sergeant Walcott and the pilot were seriously wounded. Upon crash landing, Sergeant Walcott freed himself from the wreckage and pulled the wounded pilot to safety just seconds before the aircraft burst into flames. Upon reaching a covered position, Sergeant Walcott repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy fire as he successfully repulsed a hostile attack. Sergeant Walcott’s gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.