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 Specialist Fourth Class Bobby E. Byrd, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 21 January 1970 while serving as a driver with Company D, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, the troop suddenly came under intense enemy mortar, rocket-propelled grenade, and automatic weapons fire, disabling one of the lead vehicles and seriously wounding one member of its crew. Immediately, Specialist Byrd moved his vehicle between the damaged tank and the enemy positions. He then proceeded to place suppressive return fire upon the enemy. Despite the intense fire, he voluntarily exposed himself and aided in moving the wounded man to a relatively safe area. As he was assisting in the evacuation of additional casualties, Specialist Byrd suddenly observed several enemy troops advancing on his position. Without regard for his own safety, he immediately engaged the enemy element with his individual weapon, causing them to withdraw. He then returned to the center of the contact area to assist his comrades in completely routing the enemy. Specialist Fourth Class Byrd’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.