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 Sergeant Craig B. Schoonderwoerd (ASN: US-56712626), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Sergeant Schoonderwoerd distinguished himself by heroic actions on 10 December 1968, while serving with Company C, 2d Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a combat operation, Company C came under an intense enemy mortar and rocket attack. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Schoonderwoerd moved through the bullet swept area preparing his men for a ground attack. As the assault began, he again exposed himself to intense enemy fire as he insured that the wounded were evacuated and each man was supplied with vital ammunition. Sergeant Schoonderwoerd engaged the enemy with his grenade launcher on several occasions, and destroyed several enemy positions. His valorous actions were responsible for defeating the insurgents, and the success of the mission. Sergeant Schoonderwoerd’s personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division and the United States Army.