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 (Armor) Edward Isaac Heath (ASN: 0-2335523), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 March 1969 while serving as a platoon leader with Troop L, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while Lieutenant Heath’s platoon was conducting a reconnaissance mission it made contact with a well-fortified enemy fore. As the hostile rocket propelled grenade and automatic weapons fire increased he organized his armored element into a line formation and coordinated an aggressive assault against the hostile positions. Disregarding his own safety Lieutenant Heath directed his command vehicle to lead the attack. When his driver was wounded seriously, Lieutenant Heath assumed physical control of the vehicle and continued leading the advance. As the platoon closed in on the enemy fortifications he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. His personal example of aggressive and inspiring leadership enabled his platoon to successfully accomplish its mission. First Lieutenant Heath’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.