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 Staff Sergeant James L. Thayer (ASN: RA-18923533), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat with an armed force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Thayer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 January 1969, while serving as a Team Leader with Company E, 2d Battalion, 50th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a long range reconnaissance patrol in Dinh Tuong Province. When his company came under intense enemy fire, Sergeant Thayer, disregarding his own safety, repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy barrage to maneuver his men against the Viet Cong. When he was wounded, Staff Sergeant Thayer refused treatment and continued to lead his men against the enemy. Staff Sergeant Thayer called in air and artillery support as he continually moved through the heavy fire. As a result of his actions, the enemy was completely routed. Staff Sergeant Thayer’s extraordinary heroism in close combat with an armed hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.