For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 29 November 1968. Specialist Starnes distinguished himself near Phouc Loc, Republic of Vietnam, while performing duties as a fire team leader with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry. Specialist Starnes' platoon was in position for a night ambush. Two squads of North Vietnamese Army soldiers entered the ambush area and the platoon engaged them at the command of the platoon leader. The enemy retaliated with a heavy volume of fire. Specialist Starnes immediately maneuvered his team against the enemy, seeking to gain more advantageous firing locations. Ignoring the rocket and automatic weapons fire directed against him, Specialist Starnes repeatedly fired on the enemy and carried his wounded comrades to a position of safety. Throughout the four and a half hour battle, Specialist Starnes engaged the enemy force and aided his fellow wounded soldiers. He served as lead man for the element that conducted a sweep of the battle area at night. Specialist Starnes' aggressiveness and courage were instrumental factors in the platoon's mortally wounding six North Vietnamese soldiers and capturing an equal number of weapons. Specialist Starnes' personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.