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 First Sergeant Edward Lee Casteen (ASN: RA-24753162), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Sergeant Casteen distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 29 May 1970 while serving with Battery B, 2d Battalion, 35th Artillery Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, an enemy element suddenly initiated an intense rocket-propelled grenade, mortar and ground attack against Fire Support Base RISING SUN. Immediately, Sergeant Casteen proceeded to move through the intense enemy fire to insure that all positions were manned and to determine the extent of damage done by the initial mortar rounds. After determining the direction of the enemy’s main effort, Sergeant Casteen reinforced the critical areas of the perimeter against the oncoming enemy. He commanded the reactionary force that moved to meet the enemy and coordinated their efforts throughout the attack, moving from position to position without regard for his personal safety. Although wounded during the attack, Sergeant Casteen was responsible to a large degree in repelling a determined enemy First Sergeant Casteen’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.