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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Carl Allen Harris (ASN: 0-5538408), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Harris distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 January 1968 while serving as Platoon Leader with Company M, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. While conducting Operation Fargo in the vicinity of Long Binh, Lieutenant Harris and his tank platoon uncovered an enemy base camp of considerable size. Without warning, the lead tank was suddenly hit with an antitank round causing the vehicle to erupt in flames. In complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Harris courageously directed his tank between the Viet Cong fire and the burning vehicle, thus enabling the men in the disabled vehicle to be shielded from further fire. With inspirational leadership, Lieutenant Harris poured a withering volume of automatic weapons and main gun fire into the midst of the insurgents, cutting them down in great numbers. Suddenly, his vehicle received a direct hit from an antitank round, mortally wounding him. His decisive actions allowed the hostile force to be overcome. First Lieutenant Harris’ extraordinary heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.