It was near daybreak when heavily armed subversive terrorists, some carrying mortars and M-79 grenade launchers, stealthily surrounded the patrol base and upon reaching vantage positions simultaneously fired their weapons at the surprised troopers killing two sentinels on post during the initial burst of gunfire.

Undaunted by the numerical and firepower superiority of the enemy, Master Sergeant Silvestre immediately deployed his handful of men, directing them to defend the base at all costs and ordering his radio operator to inform the Company Headquarters about the situation.

Although outnumbered 8 to 1, the beleaguered troops fought with intense ferocity, while their leader, with his exceptional marksmanship, fatally shot one by one the other terrorists as they crawled towards the patrol base.

Fighting continued for another hour until the enemy finally withdrew through the nearby forested area, dragging some of their killed and wounded comrades.

By this display of extraordinary gallantry, Master Sergeant Silvestre Jr contributed immeasurably towards the continued success of the campaign against subversive terrorism in the country, thereby distinguishing himself in the field of combat in keeping with the best traditions of Filipino soldiery.