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 (Field Artillery) Jerry D. Robatka (ASN: 0-5420544), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Robatka distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 8 March 1969, while serving as Artillery Liaison Officer with Headquarters, Headquarters and Service Battery, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 77th Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during an enemy attack in Tay Ninh Province, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit’s perimeter came under an intense enemy rocket, mortar and ground attack and several casualties were sustained when the tactical operations center received a direct hit, Captain Robatka exposed himself to the hostile fire as he rant o the tactical operation center and administered first aid to the wounded soldiers and extinguished the fires which had erupted. He then re-established communications with the firing batteries. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Robatka moved to vantage points from which he could best adjust and control tube artillery and aerial rocket artillery fires. His courageous actions were an inspiration to his men and contributed greatly towards forcing the insurgents to withdraw. Captain Robatka’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.