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 Private First Class Charles Patrick Terhune (ASN: RA-16821683), United States Army, for gallantry in action against a hostile force. Private First Class Terhune distinguished himself by exceptionally heroic actions on 14 March 1967, while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, during search and destroy operations in thick jungle, west of Pleiku, Republic of Vietnam. Sudden heavy contact with an estimated company of North Vietnamese Regulars resulted in several casualties in Company A. Private First Class Terhune responded instantly with a lethal volley of fire which destroyed an enemy machine gun position. Another enemy machine gun was placing extreme pressure on an element of his unit. Crawling toward the enemy weapons under intense and deadly fire, Private First Class Terhune maneuvered into close proximity and obliterated the emplacement with a hand grenade. Then, moving from tree to tree, he advanced on two enemy sniper positions and eliminated both of them. Continuing to display the unfaltering courage and spirits of a truly outstanding soldier, Private First Class Terhune continued to relentlessly press the enemy forces. Standing up in full view of the enemy, he delivered a deadly burst of fire, which proved fatal to three more enemy soldiers. At this time, Private First Class Terhune began moving back toward the main body of his unit, but was mortally wounded before he could reach a more secure position. His resolute courage, indomitable will and supreme sacrifice brought a telling blow upon the enemy and saved the lives of uncounted comrades. Private First Class Terhune’s unimpeachable valor in close combat with a determined enemy is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.