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) Chester Earl Keith, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 June 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of Troop L, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while conducting a reconnaissance-in-force operation, the troop suddenly came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a well concealed enemy force. When one of the crew members of his vehicle was seriously wounded by an exploding rocket-propelled grenade Captain Keith carried the casualty through the hostile fusillade to a safe position. Captain Keith then returned to his vehicle and began directing his troops return fire. Several other members of the crew were wounded and he was forced to man both machine guns. His vehicles radio had been damaged by the enemy fire but Captain Keith directed his men with hand-and-arm signals to place accurate suppressive fire on the enemy positions. As a result of his skillful leadership the hostile attack was thwarted. Captain Keith’s outstanding courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.