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 Chief Warrant Officer (CW-2) Elmer D. Lauck (ASN: W-3153283), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 189th Aviation Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in action from 30 to 31 January 1968. Chief Warrant Officer Lauck distinguished himself while serving as an armed helicopter section commander during the intense enemy actions against free world forces at Kontum and Dak To. From the early morning hours of the first day, he was engaging the well-entrenched enemy in and around the towns. Repeatedly he led his section to wreak destruction on the enemy and thwart his every maneuver. Frantic calls for assistance were answered and the enemy’s penetration of the defenses of the friendly forces was crushed and thrown back by the firepower delivered by Chief Warrant Officer Lauck. Even though his helicopters were terribly raked by the enemy for two days until the enemy, beaten and frustrated, was forced to withdraw from the battle. His courage and gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.