Leonard L. Newton

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Leonard L. Newton (2387353), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company I, Third battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 January 1968, Private First Class Newton’s platoon engaged a North Vietnamese Army unit which was occupying positions on top of a hill. In the ensuing fire fight, the Marines sustained several casualties and were temporarily pinned down. Unhesitatingly moving to a forward position, Private First Class Newton commenced to direct fire against the enemy. Unable to adjust his fire because of the high grass, he repeatedly stood up and fired his weapon from the shoulder. Suppressing the fire from at least three enemy automatic weapons, he enabled his platoon to recover the wounded and maneuver to more advantageous positions. Disregarding his own safety, he continued to stand in the tall grass and provide covering fire for his companions until he was killed by the hostile fire. By his indomitable courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Newton upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.