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 Specialist Fifth Class Joe N. Jenkins (ASN: US-56686814), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military actions involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fifth Class Jenkins distinguished himself by valorous actions on the evening of 19 June 1967 while serving as a rifleman during an attack on his units position by an estimated three hundred Viet Cong. Awakened by the initial burst of enemy fire Specialist Jenkins sprinted across an open field to his armored vehicle and began firing upon the insurgents. Specialist Jenkins relentlessly exposed himself to the lethal volley of enemy rounds while delivering accurate covering fire for two crew members who were repairing the malfunctioning M-60 machine guns. Seeing an adjacent armored vehicle erupt into flames Specialist Jenkins immediately rushed across an open area to assist the beleaguered occupants. At that moment his own vehicle was struck by an enemy anti-tank rocket and burst into flames. L Without regard for personal safety Specialist Jenkins returned to the aid of his wounded comrades. Evacuating the casualties Specialist Jenkins gallantly assumed command of the squad and led his men in routing the enemy from their positions. Specialist Fifth Class Jenkins’ personal bravery and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.