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 Captain (Armor) Jerry L. Hensley, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 27 December 1969 while serving as Troop Commander, Company D, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date his company was participating in an assault against a large North Vietnamese force firing small arms and automatic weapons. He immediately moved to the front of the unit and charged a bunker complex. The enemy fled leaving behind valuable equipment and documents. After advancing a few hundred meters the friendly unit drew heavy enemy fire. Captain Hensley instructed his bulldozer track to plow a pat through the dense jungle and attacked the enemy soldiers forcing them to retreat. Captain Hensley’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.