(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Joseph Easterbrook Collins, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Colonel Collins distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Commanding Officer of the 199th Infantry Brigade (Light) (Separate), in action against the enemy in 1969 and 1970. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Collins, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.