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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Jake Harold Van Meter, Jr. (ASN: US-52676100), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Sergeant Van Meter distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 7 October 1967, while serving as squad leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, during a search and destroy mission near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit came under intense hostile fire, Sergeant Van Meter, disregarding his own safety, exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire as he directed his men into covered positions. He again exposed himself to the hostile fire to draw the fire away from his men. Observing several wounded comrades lying in an exposed area, Sergeant Van Meter moved through the open area and pulled the wounded soldiers to safety. While moving the men to a safe position, Sergeant Van Meter was wounded, but continued until he had completed his task. At this time, while delivering a high volume of covering fire for the wounded men, Sergeant Van Meter was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.