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 Captain (Air Defense Artillery) Troy J. Roop, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 173d Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, in action against the enemy on 8 August 1970 in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Roop distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilot of a troop-carrying helicopter operating in an area southwest of Bu Dop. As his ship set down beside the flaming wreckage of a downed helicopter gunship, he left his position and rushed to aid the trapped crewmen aboard the gunship. Disregarding the grave danger to his own life, he entered the front of the wreckage and struggled with others to free the aircraft commander. Driven off repeatedly by the tremendous heat, he saw the gunship’s crew chief roll form the flaming cabin deck. Again approaching the flaming and ordnance-laden ship, he dragged the crew chief clear of the fire and placed him on board the evacuation helicopter. Before he could return again, the rocket loaded aboard the wreckage erupted. Captain Roop immediately resumed his aircraft position to evacuate with all haste the seriously injured airmen and rescuers. His courageous 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.