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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) Ronald A. Hofmann (ASN: OF-102915), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Hofmann distinguished himself by valorous actions on 19 June 1967 while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop K, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment when an estimated battalion of Vietnam Cong attacked the squadron command post. Reacting instantly to the tense situation, Captain Hofmann directed the fire of his elements against the fanatical attackers with devastating accuracy. He was directly responsible for dispersing and temporarily halting the enemy advance. At that moment Captain Hofmann lost communications with one of his platoons. In complete disregard for personal safety he fearlessly darted through withering enemy fire to the platoon leader’s vehicle. Discovering that the vehicle was immobilized and the platoon leader injured Captain Hofmann aggressively assumed command of the platoon and while completely exposed to the unrelenting enemy fire reorganized the perimeter system thereby enabling the friendly force to place a deadly barrage on the constantly maneuvering Viet Cong. When he had reorganized the men he dismounted and again braved a hail of fire by rallying and encouraging his men to repel the aggressors. Additionally Captain Hofmann evacuated many wounded and charged through the searing heat of a burning vehicle in order to remove casualties. Captain Hofmann’s extraordinary heroism in close combat with a hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Armor)

    Batallion:

    3d Squadron

    Regiment:

    11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

    Action Date:

    July 21, 1967
    Headquarters, 9th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4775 (September 18, 1967)

    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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Armor) Ronald A. Hofmann (ASN: OF-102915), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Hofmann distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 21 July 1967 while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop K, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Captain Hofmann was leading an armored convoy that was suddenly engaged by two Viet Cong battalions employing recoilless rifles, rockets, automatic weapons and small arms. Reacting instantly Captain Hofmann immediately deployed his elements to combat the well-entrenched enemy. As he bravely led his men in penetrating the Viet Cong positions Captain Hofmann’s vehicle received a direct hit from a guerilla rocket that wounded him severely. Although tortured by the severe pain of his wounds he valiantly retained control and radioed the situation to the Squadron Commander. Completely exposing himself to intense hostile fire, he skillfully directed the fire of helicopter gunships as well as ground elements. Although weakened from severe loss of blood Captain Hofmann refused to be evacuated until the completion of the counter offensive. Although virtually blinded by blood from a head wound he aggressively maintained control until he collapsed from loss of blood. Captain Hofmann’s extraordinary heroism in close combat with a hostile force is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.