For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Larson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on July 31 1967 while serving with Company A, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry. On that date, the third platoon was securing the high ground south of Phu Long while the first platoon was searching and clearing the base of the hill. Lieutenant Larson was just about to return to his platoon, after he had delivered some needed explosives to the first platoon, when heavy automatic weapon fire pinned down the first platoon. Seeing that the first platoon was pinned down by heavy automatic fire, Lieutenant Larson, without regard for his own personal safety, exposed himself by running across an open rice paddy between the first and third platoons. Upon reaching his platoon, he directed fire upon the enemy's position causing them to retreat. First Lieutenant Larson's heroic action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Americal Division and the United States Army.