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 (Field Artillery) Paul Joseph Sekula (ASN: 0-5023798), United States Army, for gallantry in action in involving close combat with a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Sekula distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on the night of 2 December 1967, while commanding an artillery platoon performing security for a Special Forces camp at Bu Dop, Vietnam. When the friendly force came under a vicious mortar attack, Lieutenant Sekula left the relative safety of the Fire Directions Center and proceeded to direct the two howitzers in firing. Taking up a completely exposed position, Lieutenant Sekula led his men valiantly until a hostile projectile hit an ammunition storage area, exploding and spreading fire throughout the camp. Lieutenant Sekula manned his position until it became untenable due to the searing flames, and then courageously began fighting the fire. Alertly realizing that further explosions would occur, he rallied his men and led them to several mortar positions. From there, despite the pain of burns and shrapnel wounds, Lieutenant Sekula directed counter-mortar fire with devastating accuracy. When all mortar ammunition was expended, Lieutenant Sekula bravely took up a position behind a .50 caliber machine gun and fired upon the enemy while simultaneously directing the care and evacuation of the wounded. First Lieutenant Sekula’s extraordinary heroism was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.