his battalion to move out of the kill zone and continue their mission. (5) CPT Griffin’s ARVN counterpart was struck by close fire, and CPT Griffin unhesitatingly carried the wounded commander to safety while shielding him with his own body against rocket and artillery fire. CPT Griffin proceeded to carry four more wounded soldiers to safety while protecting them with his own body, returning each time against devastating enemy fire. While leading the final attack, CPT Griffin was hit three times in the chest by enemy small arms fire, yet continued to lead at the forefront of his battalion until the mission was completed. Under CPT Griffin’s command and leadership, the 4/5 Battalion continued to reduce the enemy regiment’s fighting capacity. (6) CPT Griffin’s personal leadership in intense close combat resulted in a major win for his battalion against overwhelming odds, killing 93 enemy soldiers and saving the lives of over 300 allied soldiers by galvanizing and leading them out of the kill zone. (7) CPT Griffin’s selfless devotion to duty, his extraordinary heroism, conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity, and numerous risks of his life above and beyond the call of duty, are all in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army, and reflect great credit on himself, the Armed Forces, and the United States. 2. Findings Congress finds the following with regards to the original decision to award a Silver Star to Thomas Helmut Griffin: (1) When awarding him the Silver Star, CPT Griffin’s chain of command was unaware of the full extent of his valorous actions and the numerous risks he took for his soldiers, all above and beyond the call of duty. (2) Congress notes that although CPT Griffin was struck three times by enemy fire, and at one point was completely surrounded by the enemy, he continued to fight and lead his battalion against devastating and overwhelming enemy fire. (3) Congress notes that CPT Griffin’s Commanding Officer, Colonel Dean E. Hutter (ret.), sent a letter to the Department of the Army dated