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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Armor) Robert Allyn Wilson (ASN: 0-5312504), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Wilson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action son 6 May 1968 while serving as Commanding Officer of Company M, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, on a reconnaissance in force mission in the vicinity of Cu Chi, Vietnam. While proceeding down a narrow roadway the armored column was suddenly engaged by an enemy force of unknown size armed with antitank weapons, automatic weapons and small arms. Realizing that the vehicles were highly vulnerable position and unable to maneuver effectively,, Captain Wilson immediately assumed an exposed position and directed his vehicle up and down the roadway, skillfully placing accurate fire on the insurgent positions. At one point, Captain Wilson remained in fully exposed position as his tank penetrated 20 meters of dense jungle to destroy an antitank position that was endangering the column. As he was rejoining other elements of his company an automatic weapons position to his flank began directing intense fire against his tank. While Captain Wilson was in the process of moving his main tank gun upon the enemy position, he was suddenly wounded by a burst of hostile fire. Captain Wilson’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against a Viet Cong force was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.