Richard B. Twohey

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard B. Twohey (0-504049), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Twohey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard B. Twohey (577327), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 4 November 1950. Suddenly confronted by four enemy tanks while leading a machine-gun section at the point of a motorized patrol, Staff Sergeant Twohey bravely mounted one of the tanks in company with his platoon commander and another Marine in an attempt to open the hatch and drop a grenade within. Unable to open the cover, he knocked down the periscope and deposited the grenade inside the aperture. When the tank moved a few yards and stopped, he again climbed upon it and dropped another grenade inside before being thrown from the vehicle during its final lurch. By his marked courage, daring initiative and devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Twohey contributed materially to the successful completion of the patrol’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, 1st Marine Division, Serial 44173