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 Sergeant Matthew Carter, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Carter distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 13 June 1968, Sergeant Carter’s company was in a defensive perimeter near Dak Pek when it was charged by two companies of North Vietnamese Regulars. Sergeant Carter was wounded early in the attack by an enemy rocket, while he was laying down a suppressive barrage of machine gun fire. He refused to leave this position despite his wounds, and continued to fire his machine gun until an enemy grenade was thrown into his position again wounding him and jamming his machine gun. Despite his great pain he succeeded in repairing his weapon and gain supplied suppressive fire in order to cover his men until assistance could arrive. He continued to fire the machine gun until he lost consciousness, suffering intensely from his wounds. His truly magnificent perseverance and courage undoubtedly saved many of his wounded comrades’ lives and prevented the enemy from penetrating the perimeter. Sergeant Carter’s personal bravery, determination, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.