For heroism in connection with military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Lingle distinguished himself while serving as an Assistant Team Leader with Company K, 75th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 25 September 1969, Private First Class Lingle’s long range patrol was searching for a suitable site for crossing the swift moving Ry Ninh River when they were observed by a four man point element of a larger Viet Cong force. Small arms fire was exchanged resulting in the immediate death of four Viet Cong. As the main body began to reinforce, Private First Class Lingle initiated the request for artillery on the team’s survival radio. Private First Class Lingle then engaged the enemy with accurately placed hand grenades and an intense volume of small arms fire. He also continued to provide heavy fire covering the movements of the team leader who was moving forward for better observation. Upon observing an enemy grenade explode near another team member, he openly exposed himself while moving to his comrade. He immediately administered first aid, stopping the bleeding and applying a bandage. He then returned to his position under heavy fire and continued to engage the enemy. Private First Class Lingle’s courageous actions, outstanding performance and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.