Private First Class Gregory Ambrose, Killed in Action in Vietnam on March 15, 1968: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" to Private First Class Gregory Francis Ambrose (ASN: US-52747088), United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force. On 15 March 1968, Private First Class Ambrose was serving as a rifleman with his company during a search and destroy operation south of Thu Duc. He was with the lead element of the friendly force when they made contact with a reinforced Viet Cong platoon utilizing heavy machine gun, claymore mine and small arms fire. In the initial burst of fire, Private First Class Ambrose dashed to the point of heaviest contact where he provided highly suppressive fire to cover the deployment of the rest of his platoon. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he remained exposed to the heavy enemy fire until he was certain that all his comrades had safely reached cover. It was only then that Private First Class Ambrose himself sought cover. He began to withdraw from his forward position continuing his accurate fire upon the well-entrenched insurgents. It was at this time that he was mortally wounded. The dauntless courage, determined efforts, and deep concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers exhibited by Private First Class Ambrose undoubtedly saved several friendly lives and contributed significantly to the ultimate defeat of a large Viet Cong force. Private First Class Ambrose's outstanding display of aggressiveness, devotion to duty, and personal bravery is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division and the United States Army. Action Date: March 15, 1968