The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] George Quamo (ASN: 0-5307391), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam, on 27 March 1963, while serving as Assistant Battalion Advisor to the 3d Battalion, 33d Regiment, 21st Infantry Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. On 27 March 1963, during the 21st Infantry Division Operation DUC THANG 8/42, Captain Quamo accompanied the lead left company in which was part of the Battalion Task Force attacking south to close with and destroy the Viet Cong. The Viet Cong had been forced into a holding position by the attacking 3d Battalion, plus Division forces that were blocking and/or attacking from the west and south. Forced to hold, the two Viet Cong Battalions, plus a new and partially reorganized Battalion, attempted to draw the 3d Battalion into the area and then encircle and destroy it. Closing into the area, the 2d Company, which Captain Quamo accompanied, was pinned down by heavy enemy fire. The 2d Company placed a .30 Caliber machine gun into a forward firing position which gave supporting fires for all of the maneuvering companies. This was the only forward employed machine gun and Captain Quamo observed that the gun was out of operation despite the efforts of the gun crew. Realizing this would leave the company without supporting fires and would jeopardize the maneuvering of the other two companies, Captain Quamo, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved through heavy enemy fire to the forward machine gun and remedied the machine gun failure, putting it back into action. Later, when the companies were ordered to attack, the Company Commander was hesitant in making a bold move forward against heavy enemy fire, whereupon Captain Quamo persuaded him to rally the 2d Company. The Company Commander was inspired by his courage and moved the company rapidly forward. Captain Quamo’s sound knowledge of military tactics and weapons, his heroic and quick actions and his steadfast advisory efforts during this engagement while the Battalion was under constant heavy fire for four hours won for him and the United States advisory effort very favorable recognition through Vietnamese channels. Captain Quamo’s action reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army and is in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.