The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class James Ronald McNish, United States Army, for gallantry in action evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class McNish distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 5 February 1969, as the Crew Chief of a UH-1H Medical Ambulance Helicopter of the 1st Platoon, 68th Medical Group, 44th Medical Brigade, on a mission to evacuate seriously wounded Vietnamese Army soldiers near Xuan Loc, South Vietnam. The crew was brief on the high level of enemy activity in the area, but calmly determined to proceed with the rescue. While three casualties were being hoisted the aircraft became the target of intense hostile fire and received several hits. Braving the Communists’ fusillade, Specialist Fourth Class McNish continued to perform his duties while his helicopter hovered over the jungle until the patients were safely inside. After delivering them to the hospital, he courageously returned with his helicopter to the battle area to insure quick evacuation and treatment for the remaining seriously wounded men. As they prepared to make extraction, his ship was struck by an enemy rocket propelled grenade which caused it to crash in flames, killing all aboard. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Specialist Fourth Class McNish, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.