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 Major (Armor) John Hale Getgood (ASN: 0-90819), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Getgood distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 15 March 1968, while serving as Commander of the 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, on a reconnaissance in force mission in conjunction with elements of the 25th Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam. The ground elements had come in heavy contact with an estimated battalion of Viet Cong entrenched along 300 meters of dense woodline. After maneuvering his units into position to direct suppressive fire on the enemy, Major Getgood directed the pilot of his light observation helicopter to fly directly over the enemy positions. Completely disregarding his own safety, Major Getgood marked insurgent positions with smoke, disregarding heavy concentrations of fire until all locations had been pinpointed. After insuring that the area had been saturated with gunship and artillery fire, Major Getgood directed his helicopter to land, and began running through intense enemy fire from assault vehicle to assault vehicle in order to issue instructions for the assault. He then led the ground elements in the attack, exposing himself on numerous occasions to direct suppressive fire on enemy fortifications. His courageous actions resulted in a body count of 81 enemy dead with only minimum friendly casualties. Major Getgood’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against a numerically superior Viet Cong force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.