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 (Infantry) Alan Burgess Phillips (ASN: OF-87310), United States Army, for gallantry in action. At approximately 1630 hours on 10 July 1967, Captain Phillips was commanding Company A, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate), as part of a multi-company task force when his lead element engaged an estimated enemy battalion entrenched in well-fortified and well concealed bunkers. A violent fire fight developed. Without regard for his own personal safety Captain Phillips immediately moved forward to the heaviest point of contact and personally directed fire against the enemy positions. He moved from position to position directing selected individuals to fire at snipers located in the trees. When the 2d Platoon leader was killed, Captain Phillips took command of that platoon and organized and regrouped it. At this time the task force commander was killed and Captain Phillips assumed command of the entire task force. He called in artillery fire from a position within 20 meters of the enemy positions. During the two and one-half hour fight, Captain Phillips was continually exposed to intense enemy fire, narrowly missing being wounded or killed on numerous occasions. He was directly in command of his company, one platoon, and the entire task force. With great professional competence, he calmly and cool headedly directed each of these elements. By his personal presence and courage he inspired all the men under his command which resulted in the enemy being forced to withdraw from their positions. Captain Phillips displayed the very highest courage and gallantry throughout the engagement and his actions reflect the highest credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.