The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Major (Field Artillery) James F. Gabelmann, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force. Major Gabelmann distinguished himself by heroic action on 18 February 1972 while serving as District Senior Advisor, Tan Uyen District, Bien Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Gabelmann was advising the Tan Uyen District Headquarters Reaction Force whose mission was to reinforce the 291st Regional Force Company already in contact with the enemy. Shortly after the arrival of the District Headquarters Reaction Force, the enemy broke contact and Major Gabelmann along with the Reaction Force began a sweep of the battle area. Suddenly, the Reaction Force began to receive heavy small arms and automatic weapons fire from an enemy position concealed in a nearby woodline. Taking immediate action, Major Gabelmann, with total disregard for his personal safety, moved to a forward position to better direct the artillery, and rallying his comrades, assaulted the enemy position. Major Gabelmann’s timely and accurate direction of artillery fire and his leadership of the assaulting element resulted in the infliction of numerous casualties on the Viet Cong and caused them to flee into the jungle. Major Gabelmann’s heroic 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.