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 Private First Class Gary Collins Ferguson (ASN: US-56693357), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Private First Class Ferguson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 16 March 1967, while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a search and destroy mission near Bong Son, Republic of Vietnam. After his company became engaged in battle with a heavily armed, well positioned enemy, Private First Class Ferguson braved intense hostile fire to provide ammunition to the forward positions. Although suffering from fragment wounds himself, Private First Class Ferguson crawled to a seriously wounded comrade, pulled him onto his back, then crawled through heavy undergrowth under withering enemy fire to a covered position. After insuring his comrade was being cared for, Private First Class Ferguson took his weapon and moved forward again to assist in the battle. His accurate fire and courageous action in moving forward to throw grenades into enemy held caves was a source of inspiration to the members of his platoon. Private First Class Ferguson’s display of personal bravery and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.