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 Specialist Fourth Class Robert S. Archibald (ASN: US-56828431), 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 C, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry, 199th Infantry Brigade (Separate) (Light). Specialist Four Archibald distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 31 January 1968 as radio telephone operator of an infantry unit on a combat mission near Ho Nai. When a long range reconnaissance patrol sighted a large enemy force moving toward his brigade’s base camp, Specialist Archibald’s unit moved to engage the Viet Cong. A raging battle ensured, and his force was greatly outnumbered. Fighting furiously, the friendly forces pushed the Viet Cong back. Specialist Archibald and two comrades had just crossed a cemetery when enemy elements attacked from a position in open graves. Disregarding his personal safety, he moved from the security of a ditch and took up a position behind a partially destroyed pillar. Calling for grenades from his comrades, he stepped into the open and threw one at the enemy position delivering the heaviest fire. The insurgents threw them back, and it exploded nearby. After throwing two more grenades and having them thrown back, he charged the open grave and killed four insurgents with deadly fire. The Viet Cong concentrated a withering barrage on him, but he fearlessly and methodically moved through the cemetery and routed the enemy from their positions. Braving a hail of fire, he personally killed twelve Viet Cong with accurate bursts from his weapon. His fearless actions were instrumental in overwhelming the insurgents and forcing them to withdraw. Specialist Four Archibald’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.