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 Captain (Infantry) James P. Goodridge (ASN: 0-5325092), United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 5 March 1968. Company A, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment was heavily engaged with a North Vietnamese Army Battalion entrenched in well-fortified positions near Phuoc Vinh, Republic of Vietnam. Company B, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, commanded by Captain Goodridge, was dispatched to the area in an attempt to outflank the enemy force. Immediately after arriving, Company B came under intense fire from the entrenched enemy. Exposed to the enemy fire, Captain Goodridge moved to the forwardmost element of his company and began directing his troops to good positions. He then brought his company on line and began directing an assault on the enemy positions. After settling into a good vantage point, he directed artillery fire and air strikes on the entrenched enemy. Captain Goodridge’s actions contributed to the overwhelming victory of the combined unis as they completely routed the numerically superior enemy forces. His gallant efforts, personal bravery, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.