For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: On this date, Private First Class Ark was serving as a medical aidman with his battery when at approximately 0245 hours, the friendly base was suddenly subjected to an intense barrage of enemy mortar and rocket fire. During the initial volley of hostile fire, a casualty was sustained in one of the howitzer sections. Without regard for his personal welfare, Private First Class Ark braved the vicious fusillade of shrapnel and the impacting enemy rockets as he maneuvered from the relative safety of his bunker to the wounded man's location, and administered first aid. When eight men were seriously wounded in another howitzer section, Private First Class Ark again exposed himself to the aggressors' barrage as he rushed to aid his fallen comrades. His selfless courage and professional performance of his mission served as an inspiration to the men of his unit and earned him the respect and confidence of all who witnessed his actions. Private First Class Ark's actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.