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 Staff Sergeant Wilford M. DeNote, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Squad Leader, Aerorifle Platoon, Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during combat operations against hostile forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 17 September 1970. On this date, the enemy employed an IED and an attack by fire against the platoon within Staff Sergeant DeNote’s squad sector. Continually exposing himself to fire, Staff Sergeant DeNote distributed ammunition while directing and encouraging his men. With total disregard for his own safety, he carried an unconscious medic through intense fire to the helicopter pickup zone before returning to his men and the fight. Staff Sergeant DeNote’s actions reflect great credit upon himself, the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, and the United States Army.