Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 4432 (December 7, 1970)
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 Colonel (Cavalry) John Love Gerrity, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 26 June 1970 while serving as the Regimental Commander with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Colonel Gerrity arrived at Fire Support Base SUSAN shortly before it was suddenly attacked by an enemy force of unknown size. Ignoring the incoming mortar and heavy small arms fire, Colonel Gerrity immediately returned to his aircraft and once airborne, located the enemy mortar positions, called in gunships, and personally directed them in the silencing of the mortars. As the battle continued, he personally ordered his aircraft to land in response to an urgent medical evacuation call. Despite the intense fire and the risk of his own life, he assisted in the loading of the wounded men. Although dangerously close to the maximum allowable weight of his helicopter, he ordered the aircraft to take off and proceed to Quan Loi, where the men could receive medical attention. This done, he returned to Fire Support Base SUSAN to assist in the final defeat of the enemy. Colonel Gerrity’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.