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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) David C. Petruska (ASN: 0-5358909), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Second Lieutenant Petruska distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 5 January 1970 while serving as platoon leader in the Republic of Vietnam. When his unit came in contact with a determined enemy force, disregarding his own safety, he unhesitatingly moved through the intense hostile fire directing aerial rocket artillery. Continually exposing himself to the heavy volume of fire, he maneuvered forward to assist in getting the wounded to a position of relative safety. In addition to calling in air strikes, he directed the fire of his platoon as they accurately engaged known and suspected enemy locations. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.