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) James T. Tutt, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 19 June 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop I, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Troop I was in a rubber plantation when it was suddenly engaged by an unknown-size North Vietnamese Army force in well-concealed and heavily-fortified bunker complexes. Captain Tutt repeatedly exposed himself to the intense fire as he used hand and arm signals to direct his men. When several vehicles were temporarily disabled, Captain Tutt immediately directed his own armored assault vehicle to provide protection and suppressive fire to relieve the beleaguered elements. He then directed the evacuation of the seriously injured troopers and provided for the immediate medical attention for the men. Captain Tutt’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.

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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Armor) James T. Tutt, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 7 September 1969, while serving as Commanding Officer, Troop I, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while conducting a reconnaissance mission Troop I was suddenly attacked by a large and well-entrenched enemy force. Captain Tutt immediately formed his men on-line and assaulted the enemy positions. As the intense small arms and rocket-propelled grenade fire continued against the friendly force, communications were suddenly cut. Captain Tutt ignored the hostile fire to expose himself and use arm and hand signals to direct his men. Applying a maximum amount of firepower, he destroyed several bunkers with his machine gun, resulting in at least four enemy killed. His relentless and inspiring leadership rallied his men to defeat the enemy force. Captain Tutt’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.