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 Raymond L. Hopper, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Hopper distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 11 June 1970 while serving as a member of a patrol with Troop C, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Sergeant Hopper’s element was suddenly engaged by an undetermined size enemy force. Immediately, Sergeant Hopper returned the enemy fire with accurate bursts from his personal weapon. Despite the deadly hail of enemy fire, Sergeant Hopper assaulted the enemy position and placed continuous suppressive fire on the enemy. Observing a wounded soldier lying in the open Sergeant Hopper maneuvered towards his fallen comrade in an attempt to rescue him. Completely ignoring the barrage of automatic weapons and small arms fire Sergeant Hopper assisted the man to a safe area. Sergeant Hopper then resumed his attack on the enemy positions until the enemy elements were forced to withdraw. Sergeant Hooper’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.