For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: Lieutenant Leonard distinguished himself while serving as an Engineer Officer with a Civil Affairs Platoon at Plei Ia Lou, Pleiku Province.

Just before midnight on 21 January 1970, the 477th Regional Force Company compound came under attack by a Viet Cong force estimated at two companies. The enemy initiated the attack with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire.

Despite hostile fire bracketing the civil affairs bunker, Lieutenant Leonard immediately applied proper radio procedure, calling in sequence artillery marking rounds to provide the platoon commander with a reference point for artillery adjustment. He then called in helicopter gunship support.

His quick response under fire prevented the enemy attack from penetrating the compound area. Disregarding his personal safety in the midst of incoming rounds, he was instrumental in the successful routing of the enemy.

First Lieutenant Leonard’s personal actions 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.