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 (Armor) Max Powell Bailey, III, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Bailey distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 5 March 1970, while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop F, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Troop F was established in their night defensive position when they were suddenly attacked by an enemy force of unknown size. Throughout the contact, Captain Bailey continually exposed himself to the intense enemy fire in order to direct his men and the fire of supporting helicopter gunships. During a momentary lull in the heavy fighting, he moved along the perimeter to encourage his men, assess damage, and supervise the evacuation of wounded personnel. At this point he noticed several enemy lying in a bomb crater just outside the perimeter. Realizing that the enemy soldiers might have valuable intelligence information, Captain Bailey, accompanied by the First Sergeant, maneuvered outside the perimeter and began to pull back two of the enemy soldiers. Suddenly they were spotted and fired upon. The First Sergeant was mortally wounded and Captain Bailey was seriously wounded. Despite his painful wounds, Captain Bailey refused to be medically evacuated, and continued to direct his troops in repelling the enemy force. Captain Bailey’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.