For heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Four Sprague distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman with Company A, 1^st Battalion, 35^th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 23 January 1969, after two days of almost constant contact with a well-organized enemy force. Specialist Sprague’s element attempted to reach the perimeter of a sister company they had been cut off from. Volunteering to check the area for a safe access route, Specialist Sprague purposely exposed himself on numerous occasions so his fellow soldiers could pinpoint the enemy positions as the enemy snipers fired upon him. He successfully found a safe route to the other company’s perimeter and then returned to lead his element to the safety of the perimeter. Specialist Four Sprague’s personal bravery, outstanding performance and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.