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 First Lieutenant (Armor) John R. Brookshire (ASN: 0-5233481), United States Army, for gallantry in action against a hostile force on 24 September 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Brookshire distinguished himself while serving as Platoon Leader with Troop G, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. While conducting a sweep through a suspected enemy village, the platoon received heavy automatic and recoilless rifle fire from a well-fortified North Vietnamese Army Company. As Lieutenant Brookshire rapidly deployed his platoon to the enemy’s positions, he spotted an enemy machine gun position which was placing intense flanking fire on his unit. Realizing the threat to his platoon and the need for quick action to destroy the position, Lieutenant Brookshire repeatedly exposed himself to the intense fire as he led his men against the bunker. During the action, he was severely wounded which caused the loss of sight in one eye. Despite the severity of his wounds, Lieutenant Brookshire continued to maintain control of his platoon, refusing to be evacuated. Only when it was absolutely necessary, did he consent to be evacuated, and even then he insured that all other wounded were aboard the helicopter before he boarded. Lieutenant Brookshire’s conspicuous valor and aggressive determination contributed immensely to the destruction of a well-fortified, heavily armed and determined North Vietnamese Army Company. First Lieutenant Brookshire’s outstanding gallantry in action and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.