The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Specialist Fourth Class Francis Joseph I. Matthews, Jr. (ASN: US-51990001), United States Army, for exceptional heroism in connection with ground operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 January 1970, while assigned to Company C, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry, 199th Infantry Brigade (Separate). On that date, Specialist Matthews was participating in a platoon size operation when his unit was ambushed by a heavily armed enemy force of unknown size. Immediately and without regard for his personal safety, Specialist Matthews secured a machine gun and maneuvered through the hostile fusillade in order to reach a position from which he could cover his wounded comrades. His unhesitating reactions and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers saved the wounded men and prevented further casualties and earned him the respect and admiration of all with whom he served. Specialist Fourth Class Matthews’ heroic 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.