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) Robert Cecil Palmer (ASN: 0-98882), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Troop E, 2d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 February 1968. Captain Palmer distinguished himself while on a reconnaissance in force operation five kilometers north of Bien Hoa. Captain Palmer received word from the United States advisor to the ARVN compound in Tan Pho that the Viet Cong were active in the hamlet and several casualties had been sustained that morning. The hamlet was on Captain Palmer’s route of march, so he immediately proceeded to that area. A psychological warfare team attempted to convince the Viet Cong to surrender, and received enemy fire. Captain Palmer then assaulted the Viet Cong’s position with his troop of Armored Cavalry Assault Vehicles. The advance on the left flank proceeded well. When the advance through the more densely built up area on the right of his troop faltered because of heavy casualties, Captain Palmer moved to the critical area and started the movement forward. At this time, he moved through exposed positions with his Armored Cavalry Assault Vehicle, and also moved dismounted from vehicle to vehicle in the critical area. Throughout the entire battle, Captain Palmer continuously exposed himself to heavy small arms and automatic weapons fire to effectively control the fire and maneuver of his platoons. Through his inspirational leadership and example, the forward elements broke through the heaviest part of the defensive position to the edge of the village. When the sweep was complete, Captain Palmer moved his unit back through the area, where it was again fired on by rocket propelled grenades and automatic weapons. Captain Palmer pressed the attack and eliminated the enemy positions. By his professional knowledge and outstanding leadership ability, captain Palmer pressed an attack on an entrenched enemy, eliminated a threat to Bien Hoa Air Base, secured the ARVN Forces and their United States advisors in the village of Tan Phu, and contributed immeasurably to a battle which resulted in a confirmed body count of 75 enemy dead. His outstanding devotion to duty and personal courage are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.