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 Specialist Fourth Class Richard P. Graham, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with Troop G, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Graham distinguished himself on 19 May 1971 while serving as a driver during contact with an unknown size enemy force near the city of Trang Bang, Republic of Vietnam. One vehicle in his troop was hit by enemy rocket-propelled grenade fire, wounding several crew members. Specialist Fourth Class Graham moved his vehicle in front of the disabled vehicle and used his M-16 to place effective suppressive fire on the enemy while the wounded were removed. Upon realizing that the driver of the other vehicle was seriously wounded, Specialist Fourth Class Graham drove back through intensive enemy fire. He manned the gunner position on the disabled vehicle and gave effective fire while his track commander attempted to remove the driver. After personally helping to move the wounded man to safety, he administered first aid. Specialist Fourth Class Graham’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.