John W. Ault, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John W. Ault, Jr., Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations on 13 April 1963, as a member of the Military Assistance Advisory Group, Vietnam. Captain Ault was serving as an Advisor to a Vietnamese Airborne Battalion when a helicopter landed in an opening in a dense jungle to evacuate two soldiers who had been wounded by hostile forces. As the helicopter landed, the northern-most company of the Battalion came under a fierce attack, characterized by intense small arms fire, and suffered heavy casualties. Captain Ault quickly waved the helicopter off the ground, and then, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, crossed an area swept by heavy small arms fire to reach a radio, communicated with the helicopter personnel, and requested additional support. Despite a wound from a hand grenade, he remained with the unit to advise and encourage them, and by his inspiring leadership and courageous actions, rallied the Vietnamese soldiers to hold their position and pursue their defense efforts. Captain Ault’s conspicuous gallantry and unselfish actions are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
Department of the Army, General Orders No. 49 (November 22, 1963)