Floyd GORDON Book, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Navy Award) to Floyd Gordon Book, Jr. (US-MC-2130395), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Combined Action Platoon D-1, Sub-Unit ONE, Service Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 5 June 1967. During a patrol in the Tra Khe (2) area, Lance Corporal Book observed the patrol’s radioman fall into a camouflaged punji pit and heard the fuse of a Viet Cong grenade activated by the Marine’s fall. Reacting instantly, he warned his companions of the danger and quickly moved to his comrade’s aid. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Book pulled the radioman from the pit and pushed him away s the grenade exploded harmlessly. His timely and courageous actions at great personal risk were an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly saved his companion’s life. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Book upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.