The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Stephen Eugene Laier (ASN: RA-16815481), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. On 4 February 1966, Specialist Laier, a radio telephone operator, of the 3d Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division, was accompanying his platoon on a night combat operation in the vicinity of Lai Khe, Republic of Vietnam. At approximately 1745 hours, an insurgent force of unknown strength, utilizing antipersonnel mines and small arms fire as a prime means of their offensive, ambushed the platoon causing them to suffer heavy casualties. During the initial insurgent assault, Specialist Laier was seriously wounded from the effects of a mine which severed his legs from his body and knocked his radio off frequency. Despite the intense surging pain from his serious wounds, Specialist Laier fought off unconsciousness, recalibrated his radio, and established contact with higher headquarters to request assistance for his besieged platoon. As a result of his request, troop laden helicopters were dispatched to the battle areas. As the friendly aircraft approached the site, Specialist Laier directed their landing to his position, which at that time was relatively safe from the Viet Cong assault. With darkness drawing near, he directed the relief elements to the other besieged platoon members in order to effect their timely and safe evacuation. Specialist Laier later died as a result of his mortal wounds. His extraordinary heroism, gallantry in action, and supreme sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Arm and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.