The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Charles E. Vernon (ASN: 0-5322470), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 61st Infantry, 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized. Captain Vernon distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 4 September 1968 as commander of a mechanized company during a combat operation. Informed that one of his platoons on a flank security mission had been ambushed and was receiving heavy fire, Captain Vernon unhesitatingly moved with his headquarters section toward the battle area. As they neared the beleaguered element, they were also ambushed. His track was hit by an enemy rocket, which seriously wounded him and killed or injured the entire crew. Despite his injuries he directed his driver to move the crippled track toward the enemy positions. They were again hit by an enemy rocket which completely disabled the vehicle and wounded him again. Although in great pain and exposed to the hostile barrage, he continued to place effective fire on communist troops who attempted to assault his damaged vehicle. While fighting off the aggressors, he reorganized his company into a perimeter and directed the evacuation of casualties. Captain Vernon remained in command and maintained complete control of his unit until his wounds caused him to lose consciousness and he was evacuated. Captain Vernon’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.