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) Donald L. Cochran (ASN: 0-5244955), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 8 November 1968 while serving as the Executive Officer of Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, during the opening moments of a fierce engagement with an enemy force near Loc Ninh, the commander of Troop B suffered fatal wounds. Lieutenant Cochran flew to the battle area and immediately assumed command of the troop as it fought gallantly against the hostile force. Lieutenant Cochran, as yet unarmed, moved from platoon to platoon, under accurate hostile fire and successfully reorganized and regrouped the embattled elements. His courage and calm leadership eventually brought about the routing of the enemy elements and the removal of Troop B to a secure area. First Lieutenant Cochran’s courage and unwavering 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.