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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Delmer Virgil Ashbrook (ASN: 51646127), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Ashbrook distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Radio-telephone Operator with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a combat mission in Dinh Tuong Province. When his unit became pinned down by intense hostile fire, Specialist Ashbrook courageously exposed himself to the fusillade to maneuver among his comrades, insuring that communication was maintained. Operating his radio and firing at the same time, he rushed to the aid of his commander, after seeing him fall wounded. While administering first aid to the seriously injured man, Specialist Ashbrook, himself was mortally wounded. Specialist Fourth Class Ashbrook’s extraordinary heroism in close combat with an armed hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.