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 Fourth Class Michael L. Lowry, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 11 May 1969. Specialist Fourth Class Lowry distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the 366th Aviation Support Detachment, 1st Aviation Brigade. During the early hours a large enemy force attacked the post perimeter with intense mortar, rocket and small arms fire. Unhesitatingly he moved through the impacting rounds and small arms fire to his position on the perimeter, where he began to direct a deadly hail of fire on the enemy. When more than 100 sapper troops breached the perimeter directly in front of his position, he stayed and took a heavy toll of their ranks. Enemy sappers managed to get a grenade into his position, and the resulting explosion wounded his Commanding Officer and another man. Without thought of personal safety, he carried the severely wounded man through enemy fire to the safety of a bunker and then returned to his position. Seeing that his Commander was severely wounded, he returned to aid him to the bunker and once again braved enemy fire to resume his firing position. His 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.