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 Specialist Fourth Class Claude L. Taylor, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 190th Aviation Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, on 22 March 1970 in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Taylor distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the crewchief of a utility helicopter engaged in combat assault operations near Tan Linh. As the aircraft approached the single-ship landing zone, the enemy commenced a heavy barrage of automatic weapons fire striking the airframe in numerous places. Immediately, he began suppressing the enemy location, courageously returning a withering fire until his aircraft was destroyed by an enemy explosive device. After the crash, he eluded an intense enemy fire to assist the pilot and co-pilot from the burning aircraft. With total disregard for his own safety, he returned to the aircraft to get his machinegun. Finding cover behind an embankment, he began an intense barrage of machine gun fire into the enemy bunker complex. Out of ammunition, he courageously went through the enemy killing zone to get more ammunition from the flaming wreckage. Specialist Taylor’s undaunted courage and devotion to duty while under fire were instrumental in saving the lives of his comrades. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.