Silver Star

Silver Star Medal

Captain Clark was shot four times and seriously wounded by Viet Cong while commanding a mechanized infantry company in the jungles of Vietnam. He continued to give his men orders, despite his injuries, and his company was able to overwhelm the enemy positions. For bravery in battle, 25 year-old Clark was honored with the Silver Star.

Lt. Gen. James Hollingsworth, one of our Army's most distinguished war heroes, says:

"Clark took a burst of AK fire, but didn't stop fighting. He stayed on the field 'til his mission was accomplished and his boys were safe. He was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

And he earned 'em."

Clark’s citation for Silver Star states,

"As the friendly force maneuvered through the treacherous region, it was suddenly subjected to an intense small arms fire from a well-concealed insurgent element. Although painfully wounded in the initial volley, Captain Clark immediately directed his men on a counter-assault of the enemy positions.

With complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Clark remained with his unit until the reactionary force arrived and the situation was well in hand. His courageous initiative and exemplary professionalism significantly contributed to the successful outcome of the engagement.

Captain Clark's unquestionable valor in close combat against a hostile force is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army."

About the Silver Star

The Silver Star is the third highest award for valor and is bestowed upon those who showed gallantry with marked distinction while serving in the United States Armed Forces in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Other notable recipients of the Silver Star include, George S. Patton, Douglas MacArthur, Lyndon Baines Johnson, Max Cleland, John McCain, Audie Murphy, and David Hackworth.

Sources:

http://www.americal.org/awards/achv-svc.htm,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_Star