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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor) Edward L. Bruton, United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Bruton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 23 June 1969, while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a night roving patrol, the element spotted an sleeping enemy soldier and captured him. During the initial interrogation, the insurgent agreed to lead the patrol to the enemy camp. As the element neared the enemy’s camp, it came under devastating fire. Immediately, Lieutenant Bruton deployed his men and directed their fire. Immediately, Lieutenant Bruton deployed his men and directed their fire. Spotting a hostile position, Lieutenant Bruton, with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself to the intense fire as he assaulted the emplacement and destroyed it with hand grenades. Lieutenant Bruton then led his men in an assault that routed the enemy from their positions. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the hostile force. Lieutenant Bruton’s bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

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 First Lieutenant (Armor) Edward L. Bruton, United States Army, for gallantry in action. First Lieutenant Bruton distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 26 February 1969, while serving as a platoon leader with the Combined Reconnaissance Intelligence Platoon, 2d Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a combat operation, elements of the 2d Battalion came in contact with a large enemy force. During the initial exchange of fire, the beleaguered unit sustained several casualties. Immediately, Lieutenant Bruton called for a reaction force and a medical evacuation helicopter for the wounded. When the reaction force arrived, Lieutenant Bruton, with complete disregard for his own safety, fearlessly exposed himself as he directed his men in placing a deadly hail of fire on the insurgents. Throughout the entire encounter, Lieutenant Bruton continually exposed himself as he moved throughout the enemy kill zone organizing his men and directing their fire. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. Lieutenant Bruton’s bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.