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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Dennis Wayne Valusek, United States Army, for gallantry in action. Sergeant Valusek distinguished himself by heroic actions on 8 June 1970, while serving as a squad leader with Company B, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a reconnaissance operation elements of Company B detected a large enemy force. Immediately Sergeant Valusek placed his men in strategic fighting positions. He then maneuvered forward to investigate the enemy activity. When an enemy soldier suddenly jumped up to fire, Sergeant Valusek quickly engaged him and silenced the aggressor. However, a second enemy soldier fired on Sergeant Valusek, mortally wounding him. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. The bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty exhibited by Sergeant Valusek 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.