Marine Corps B

BABB, WAYNE A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Wayne A. Babb (0-85006), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 2d Battalion, 11th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 19, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Babb upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Brevard, North Carolina

BABITZ, DONALD M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald M. Babitz (0-73760), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (HMM-165), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 14, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Babitz upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cicero, Illinois

BACH, ALBERT W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Albert W. Bach (1994442), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 18, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bach upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Hialeah, Florida

BACHTA, THOMAS E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bachta (2051749), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 8, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bachta upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

*BACKEBERG, BRUCE B. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Bruce B. Backeberg (2100837), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 19 September 1966. During a search and clear mission of a village complex which was known to contain hostile forces, Private First Class Backeberg, while serving as the point for the company, discovered an enemy ambush. Immediately and without regard for his own safety, he rushed forward and engaged the first of the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. His instantaneous appraisal of the situation and immediate action pinpointed the enemy force and allowed the company to deliver effective artillery and air strikes on the enemy position. Later the same day, still serving as the company point, Private First Class Backeberg again discovered an enemy ambush. In the ensuing exchange of fire, he was felled, mortally wounded, by enemy rifle fire. His heroic actions in the early identification and attack on the enemy ambushes was directly responsible for the success of the company's mission and saving the lives of many of his fellow Marines. Private First Class Backeberg's inspiring initiative, courage and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial 1675 (March 15, 1967)
Born: December 2, 1946 at Great Falls, Montana
Home Town: Helena, Montana

BAEZ, JOSE M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jose M. Baez (2243475), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 26, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Baez upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Adjuntas, Puerto Rico

BAILEY, GENE E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gene E. Bailey (0-76205), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMM-367), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 28, 1971. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Bailey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Santee, South Carolina

BAILEY, THOMAS B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas B. Bailey (2273846), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 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, Corporal Bailey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Houston, Texas

*BAIRD, JOHN R., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John R. Baird, Jr. (2423144), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 February 1969.
Home Town: Oak Lawn, Illinois

*BAKER, BILLY R. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Billy R. Baker (453966023), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gun Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 24 April 1970, while the lead platoon of Company H prepared a night defensive position during a company-sized combat operation in Quang Nam Province, Lance Corporal Baker skillfully positioned his machine gun team in emplacements which could effectively cover possible avenues of enemy approach and, while he was thus engaged, the Marines came under a heavy volume of rocket-propelled grenade fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force. Reacting instantly, he fearlessly exposed himself to the hostile fire to pinpoint the hostile soldiers and direct the accurate suppressive fire of his men. With a marked increase in the tempo of battle, the machine gun nearest him became low on ammunition and he instructed a nearby Marine to procure additional rounds. Observing that the man was repeatedly forced back into his emplacement by the intensity of the North Vietnamese Army fire, Lance Corporal Baker valiantly braved the enemy fusillade as he raced across the fire-swept terrain to the nearest supply point but, as he was rushing back to the machine gun with the vitally-needed supplies, he was extensively wounded. Struggling desperately, he used his last remaining strength to crawl another twenty-five meters, dragging the ammunition behind him, until he lapsed into unconsciousness. His heroic and determined actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the subsequent defeat of the enemy. By his courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Lance Corporal Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Leesville, Texas

BAKER, CLYDE L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Clyde L. Baker (0-96075), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 25, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Seagoville, Texas

BAKER, DAVID R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David R. Baker (2032366), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 22, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Macon, Georgia

BAKER, FRED J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Fred J. Baker (214711), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Member, Reconnaissance Team HAWK, Company A, Third Reconnaissance Battalion, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 25 April 1967. The 8-man reconnaissance team while located on a ridge northwest of Khe Sanh Combat Base was nearly overrun by a sizeable North Vietnamese Army Force. During the attack, all members of the team were wounded by a rocket propelled grenade and required emergency extraction by helicopter. Lance Corporal Baker and another Marine crawled, leading the remainder of the Team to the designated landing zone to await the arrival of the helicopters. Noticing the extent of his comrade's wound, he entered the fire-swept landing zone alone to direct the helicopter while it landed on the ridge line. After assisting the Marine aboard the aircraft, he determined that the intensity of the enemy fire precluded the aircraft remaining in the landing zone long enough for the more seriously wounded Marines to make their way to the aircraft. Undaunted by the danger to their lives, he and a crew member exited the relative safety of the helicopter to help the other wounded team members aboard. Although the enemy had advanced to within 50 meters of the aircraft under the cover of a hail of automatic weapons fire and grenades, he courageously left the helicopter once again to rescue one of the remaining wounded Marines. Only after he assured himself that all the injured were safely aboard the aircraft did he embark and begin to administer first aid to the other wounded Marines as the helicopter lifted out of the landing zone. Lance Corporal Baker's courageous initiative, unselfishness, and unwavering devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Piedmont, Alabama

BAKER, HARVEY L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harvey L. Baker (2288653), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam in 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan

BAKER, HERBERT GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Herbert George Baker, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company D, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 2 July 1968, during Operation SCOTLAND II, a platoon from Company D was conducting a combat patrol near the Khe Sanh Combat Base when the Marines suddenly came under intense small arms fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force and sustained numerous casualties. Alertly observing the beleaguered Marines from h is position within the company perimeter, Staff Sergeant Baker immediately organized his men into a reaction force to aid the heavily engaged unit. Rapidly deploying his machine-gun teams, he directed accurate suppressive fire against the North Vietnamese emplacements. Fearlessly advancing across the fire-swept terrain, he reached an advantageous position and skillfully directed suppressive fire upon the enemy forces. Ignoring the hostile rounds that impacted hear him, he steadfastly remained in his dangerously exposed position adjusting devastating counter fire and shouting words of encouragement to the men, which enabled numerous Marines to safely withdraw to the company perimeter. Continuing his determined efforts, Staff Sergeant Baker boldly supervised recovery teams and ably assisted in evacuating the wounded. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of numerous Marines. By his superior leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BAKER, KENNETH A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Kenneth A. Baker (1471002), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 22, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: New Bedford, Massachusetts

BAKER, SAM R., II
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sam R. Baker, II (1973607), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 10, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Bronx, New York

*BAKER, STEVEN DEWITT (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Steven Dewitt Baker (2151521), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company F, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 28 May 1968, while occupying a defensive position southeast of Khe Sanh, Company F came under heavy attack by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Baker commenced delivering accurate grenade launcher fire on the hostile force. Although seriously wounded, he ignored his painful injury and fearlessly maneuvered from one position to another, inflicting numerous casualties on the enemy. Observing an injured comrade lying in a position dangerously exposed to the intense fire, Corporal Baker unhesitatingly moved across the fire-swept terrain and moved the man to a covered position. Continuing his determined efforts, he boldly directed a heavy volume of fire on North Vietnamese soldiers within twenty meters of his position until he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Rigby, Idaho

BAKER, SYDNEY A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sydney A. Baker (0-105860), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMM-367), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 11, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas

BAKER, WILLIAM H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William H. Baker (2036045), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 4, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Baker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Louisville, Kentucky

BALANCO, JOHN JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John James Balanco (2113184), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Senior Advisor/Marine Squad Leader of Combined Action Platoon 0-1, Third Combined Action Group, THIRD Marine Amphibious Force, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 21 January 1968 two combined action platoons and the Huong Hoa Division Headquarters in Quang Tri Province were suddenly assaulted by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force employing mortars, rockets and artillery. Disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Balanco fearlessly maneuvered about the fire-swept terrain from one position to another directing the fire of his men. Repeatedly exposing himself to the hostile fire, he rapidly redistributed ammunition and ensured that each sector of the perimeter was effectively coordinated into the defense of the position. Continuing his determined efforts for thirty-six hours, he aggressively directed his men to withdraw. His heroic actions and bold leadership inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit accounting for over forty enemy killed and numerous weapons captured. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Sergeant Balanco upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Florence, Oregon

BALFANZ, DUANE A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Duane A. Balfanz (0-96079), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 6, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Balfanz upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota

BALIGNASSAY, PEDRO L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Pedro L. Balignassay (1348870), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 25, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Gunnery Sergeant Balignassay upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Philippine Islands

BALLEW, DONALD L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald L. Ballew (649328), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 7, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Gunnery Sergeant Ballew upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Staunton, Virginia

*BALLEW, HENRY, JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Henry Ballew, Jr. (256784132), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 27, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Ballew upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia

*BALLIN, JOE M., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Joe M. Ballin, Jr. (2127236), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Ballin upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Fresno, California

BANKS, ADAM J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Adam J. Banks, Jr. (1579708), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the evening of 8 November 1967, during Operation Essex in Quang Nam Province, Company M came under intense small arms and mortar fire from a well entrenched force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars and, in the ensuing engagement, Staff Sergeant BANKS became separated from his platoon commander. Realizing that many Marines had moved across a river on their right flank in order to reach more advantageous positions, upon reaching the location, Staff Sergeant BANKS unhesitatingly assumed command of the beleaguered force of approximately seventy men and immediately began organizing a perimeter defense. Skillfully deploying the Marines while shouting directions and words of encouragement, he expeditiously consolidated his position and resolutely prepared his men for a possible attack by the North Vietnamese soldiers. After deploying his men to provide covering fire, Staff Sergeant BANKS disregarded his own safety and moved forward of the small perimeter to move several wounded comrades to the relative safety of his unit's location. Subsequently, the North Vietnamese launched an aggressive attack on the Marine position, utilizing small arms, hand grenades and mortar fire. Ignoring the hostile fire around him, Staff Sergeant BANKS fearlessly moved across the fire-swept terrain, directing the fire of his men and resupplying them with ammunition. Largely due to his outstanding professional skill, the determined enemy unit was forced to discontinue their attack and withdraw. Throughout the remainder of the night, he moved among his men, ensuring that there was maximum security and fire power to repulse any subsequent attacks. By his inspiring leadership, calm presence of mind and unwavering devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant BANKS contributed significantly to the defeat of the North Vietnamese force and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

BANKS, ANDREW B., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Andrew B. Banks, Jr. (0-81351), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 167 (HML-167), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 29, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Banks upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

BANKS, EDWARD J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward J. Banks (0-76822), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 31, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Banks upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: South Bend, Indiana

BANKS, JOHNNY L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Johnny L. Banks (2491653), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 14, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Banks upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Thomasville, Georgia

BANNING, JOHN J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John J. Banning (0-102452), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 25, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Banning upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Joplin, Missouri

BARBER, RUSSELL M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Russell M. Barber (186636), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 18, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Barber upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Boston, Massachusetts

BARCLAY, BOYD LEEDEAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Boyd Leedean Barclay (0-87876), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Observation Squadron THREE (VMO-3), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), First Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with operations against insurgent Communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 8 June 1967, Captain Barclay launched as Co- pilot of a UH-1E helicopter assigned to a visual reconnaissance mission near Khe Sanh. Suddenly, his aircraft came under intense enemy automatic weapons fire, mortally wounding the pilot and severing Captain Barclay's left hand. Displaying exceptional presence of mind and despite shock caused by loss of blood, Captain Barclay lowered the collective using the remaining portion of his left arm, thus providing sufficient maneuverability to prevent an uncontrolled crash landing. Exhibiting outstanding airmanship and resolute determination, he skillfully guided the damaged aircraft to the ground and succeeded in raising the collective sufficiently to cushion the impact of the landing. Although the aircraft rolled several times down a steep incline, the crewmen were uninjured, however Captain Barclay sustained injuries to his left leg. Disregarding his extremely serious and painful injuries, he courageously assisted his crewmen as they moved him away, where all three men were subsequently extracted. His superior aeronautical skill and extraordinary determination were an inspiration to all who served with him and were instrumental in saving the lives of his two crewmen. By his courage, exceptional presence of mind and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barclay upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

BARDEN, ROOSEVELT, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Roosevelt Barden, Jr. (2490809), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 25, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Barden upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Aliquippa, Pennsylvania

BARENTS, BRENT J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Brent J. Barents (0-89369), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 21, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barents upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Long Beach, California

BARHAM, ROBERT L., II
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert L. Barham, II (1960007), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 4, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Barham upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Santa Monica, California

BARNARD, ROGER H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Roger H. Barnard (0-52696), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 15, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Barnard upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Lincoln, Nebraska

BARNES, ALAN R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alan R. Barnes (2496022), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 12, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Barnes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Houston, Texas

BARNES, ERIC M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Eric M. Barnes (0-89806), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 24, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Barnes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Windsor, Connecticut

BARNES, LOUIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Louis Barnes (2150373), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 2, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Barnes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

BARNES, ROBERT C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert C. Barnes (2083790), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 3, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Barnes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (Vietnam), Silver Star (Vietnam)

BARNES, ROBERT L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert L. Barnes (0-105456), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMM-367), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 8, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Barnes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Wichita, Kansas

*BARNETT, MEREDITH L. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Meredith L. Barnett (281508098), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 6, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Barnett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Belpre, Ohio

BARR, JAMES B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James B. Barr (0-90775), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Light Helicopter Squadron 167 (HML-167), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 10, 1971. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barr upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

BARRETT, CLARENCE A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Clarence A. Barrett (2387775), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 1 March 1968 during Operation Hue City, Private First Class Barrett's squad was moving through a village to assist another Marine squad pinned down by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. As his squad advanced and came under intense enemy fire, he observed one Marine pinned down in the open. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private First Class Barrett stood fully exposed to hostile fire and delivered a heavy volume of machine gun fire which enabled the Marine to move to a covered position. Later, when his unit joined the beleaguered squad, he assisted in providing covering fire for three Marines lying in the open. When a fire team dispatched to aid the Marines came under intense fire and was directed to withdraw, Private First Class Barrett fearlessly moved forward to deliver covering fire and draw the North Vietnamese fire away from his companions. Although painfully wounded in both legs by enemy automatic weapons fire, he steadfastly maintained his extremely hazardous position and provided suppressive fire until the other Marines had moved to safety. His determined efforts and aggressive fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several fellow Marines. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Private First Class Barrett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Redlake, Minnesota

BARRETT, JAMES ALLEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James Allen Barrett (2137396), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a rifleman with the Second Platoon, Company C, First Reconnaissance Battalion. FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 October 1966. Corporal Barrett was a member of a thirteen man reconnaissance patrol with the mission of observing the valley in the vicinity of Long Binh, Quang Ngai Province, for enemy movement. at 1355, while moving from their observation post to a helicopter landing zone, they encountered heavy small-arms fire and grenades against the patrol's point and Corporal Barrett was wounded in the initial stages of the fire fight. Although seriously wounded, he employed his weapon against several Viet Cong at a range of two to three meters and then began a desperate attempt to help the fallen point man. In extreme pain and unable to move the Marine's body, he began trying to pull the pin of a hand grenade but was hit again by enemy fire and mortally wounded. By his inspiring devotion to duty and indomitable fighting spirit, Corporal Barrett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

BARRETT, JOHN J.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John J. Barrett (0-85356), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 10, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barrett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BARRETT, JOHN J.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to John J. Barrett (0-85356), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 3, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barrett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BARRETT, JOHN J.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star Medal to John J. Barrett (0-85356), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 26, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Barrett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (Vietnam), 3@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

*BARRON, JEFFREY M. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Jeffrey M. Barron (2296415), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 25, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Barron upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: La Puente, California

*BARROW, THOMAS M., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Thomas M. Barrow, Jr. (2308150), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 26, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Barrow upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia

BARTLETT, DAN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Dan M. Bartlett (2115490), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bartlett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Artesia, New Mexico

BARTLETT, GARY R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gary R. Bartlett (1940379), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 20, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bartlett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Irwin, Pennsylvania

BARTOLOTTI, RICHARD J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard J. Bartolotti (2365941), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 7, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bartolotti upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

BARTUSEVICS, JOHN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John Bartusevics (1897519), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 15, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bartusevics upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

BASEL, JOHN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John M. Basel (0-102818), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 13, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Basel upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: McLean, Virginia

*BATEMAN, JAMES A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James A. Bateman (2102290), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combined Action Platoon 2-8-1, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 15, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bateman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Munderlein, Illinois

*BATES, ROBERT A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Robert A. Bates (0-91299), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 22, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Bates upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Lake Forest, Illinois

BATHURST, SHELDON J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sheldon J. Bathurst (1820763), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 18, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bathurst upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

*BATTISTA, ANTHONY J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Anthony J. Battista (0-91530), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Battista upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Dunmore, Pennsylvania

BAUER, WILLIAM A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William A. Bauer (1884761), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 July 1966.
Home Town: New York, New York

BEANS, JAMES D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James D. Beans (0-72931), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 2, 1971. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Beans upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland

BEARD, LARY G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lary G. Beard, Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 17, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Beard upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BEAVER, DONALD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald E. Beaver (1201018), Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 164 (HMM-164), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Gunnery Sergeant Beaver upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania

BECHAM, GARY V.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gary V. Becham, Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 17, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Becham upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Macon, Georgia

BECK, HUGO T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Hugo T. Beck, First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 6, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Beck upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Brevard, North Carolina

BECKMAN, BRUCE E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bruce E. Beckman (0-95492), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Attack Squadron 242 (VMA-242), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 23, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Beckman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Minneapolis, Minnesota

BEEBE, WILLIAM A., II
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William A. Beebe, II (0-100848), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 8 April 1969, First Lieutenant Beebe launched as Aircraft Commander of a CH-46 transport helicopter assigned the emergency medical evacuation of a casualty from a nine-man Marine reconnaissance team which was heavily engaged in combat with a large North Vietnamese Army force deep in enemy-controlled territory in Quang Nam Province. Arriving over the designated area and learning that the outnumbered Marines were moving with the wounded man toward a river, he resolutely elected to attempt the extraction of the entire team and, skillfully maneuvering his aircraft to avoid the tall trees, established a hover with a portion of his CH-46 submerged in the river. Unable to break contact with the hostile force, the Marines fought their way to the river's edge and began wading out to the helicopter while continuing to return fire on the enemy. When the mechanism to lower the ramp malfunctioned, First Lieutenant Beebe dipped the rear of the aircraft into the current so that the open hatch above the ramp would be accessible. While his aerial gunners provided covering fire and the flight surgeon and crew chief jumped into the chest-deep water to assist the team aboard, First Lieutenant Beebe expertly manipulated his controls and skillfully maintained his difficult hover until all the Marines were aboard. When the water inside the helicopter caused its nose to suddenly pitch into the air as he was lifting out of the river, endangering the passengers who started to fall toward the ramp opening, he resolutely fought and regained control of the aircraft before any of the Marines had fallen out. Although his aircraft's rotor blades were cutting tree branches and water was draining from the fuselage, he lifted safely out of the perilous area and proceeded to the nearest medical facility. By his courage, superior aeronautical ability, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, First Lieutenant Beebe was instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Asheville, Alabama

BEELER, ROBERT A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert A. Beeler (0-89734), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 August 1969.
Home Town: Louisville, Kentucky

BELKO, LAURENCE E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Laurence E. Belko (1842683), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 26, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Belko upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: West Haven, Connecticut

BELL, EARL W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Earl W. Bell (1670116), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 24, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Bell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Claymont, Delaware

BELL, JAMES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James E. Bell (1083156), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 22, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Washington, Pennsylvania

BELL, MARCUS R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Marcus R. Bell (2197635), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 May 1967.
Home Town: Seattle, Washington

BELL, THOMAS J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas J. Bell (1973855), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 25, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Montgomery, Alabama

BELL, VAN D., JR.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Van D. Bell, Jr. (0-44563), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 18 - 22, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 15, 1918 at Atlanta, Georgia
Home Town: Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (Korea), Navy Cross (Vietnam), Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)

BELLOW, JACK W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jack W. Bellow (1889549), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 20, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bellow upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Wyatt, Missouri

BELSER, JOSEPH H., JR. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joseph H. Belser, Jr. (0-101738), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 24 May 1968 during Operation ALLEN BROOK in Quang Nam Province, Company K was attacking the village of Le Bac (1) which was well fortified and occupied by a large North Vietnamese Army force. As the company approached the area it came under intense automatic weapons fire and two platoons were separated from the remainder of the company. Assigned to assist the besieged units and in an attempt to envelop the enemy, First Lieutenant Belser moved his reserve platoon to within 300 meters of the hostile positions when the Marines encountered heavy fire which inflicted several casualties, including First Lieutenant Belser. Calmly informing his men of the situation, and although seriously wounded in the arm, he courageously moved across the fire-swept area from one position to another, encouraging his men and directing their fire while simultaneously keeping his commanding officer appraised of the situation. Under his courageous leadership, his men successfully repulsed repeated attempts by the enemy to overrun their position. Assisted by a platoon from Company M, First Lieutenant Belser utilized supporting arms fire, hand grenades and a smoke screen to withdraw his platoon along with their casualties to the company perimeter. Informed that Company M was heavily engaged with the enemy and had sustained numerous casualties, he refused to be evacuated for treatment of his injury and organized a group of Marines to retrieve the casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, he made several trips into the fire-swept area until he was wounded in the leg by the intense enemy fire and subsequently evacuated. By his courage, dynamic leadership and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk, First Lieutenant Belser inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

*BEM, WALTER P. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Walter P. Bem (2490068), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 30 April 1969, Company B was conducting a search and destroy operation near the Vu Gia River in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire from a large enemy force and sustained numerous casualties. Alertly observing a wounded man lying in an open area dangerously exposed to the intense enemy fire, Private First Class Bem unhesitatingly commenced maneuvering across the fire-swept terrain to assist his injured comrade and was seriously wounded. Despite his painful injury, he steadfastly refused to seek cover, and while continuing to advance, was wounded twice more. Disregarding his own safety, and determined to reach his comrade, he fearlessly continued maneuvering forward through the intense enemy fire, but upon reaching the side of the casualty, Private First Class Bem succumbed to his wounds. By his courage, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Bem inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Indiana, Pennsylvania

BENCH, ARNOLD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arnold E. Bench (0-51325), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 18 - 24, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bench upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Corvallis, Oregon

BENCH, EDMUND, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edmund Bench, Jr. (2478200), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 1, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bench upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Salt Lake City, Utah

BENDELL, LEE R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lee R. Bendell (0-50744), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 24, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bendell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Melrose Park, Illinois

BENDER, LAWRENCE J., II
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lawrence J. Bender, II (0-95847), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 14 - 15, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Bender upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

BENET, PETER E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Peter E. Benet (0-66168), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 14, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Benet upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Austin, Texas

BENFATTI, RAYMOND C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond C. Benfatti (0-96148), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 17, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Benfatti upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Paterson, New Jersey

BENJAMIN, JOHN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John Benjamin (2095699), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 4, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Benjamin upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: San Francisco, California

*BENNETT, BILLY J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Billy J. Bennett (2327147), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 29, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Bennett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Chattanooga, Tennessee

BENNETT, JESSE D., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jesse D. Bennett, Jr. (9-81265), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 21, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Bennett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas

BERGERON, ROBERT H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert H. Bergeron (1375888), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 27, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Bergeron upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Uxbridge, Massachusetts

*BERGERSON, JOHN F. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John F. Bergerson (0-92624), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 29, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bergerson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Mercer Island, Washington

BERGMAN, CARL E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Carl E. Bergman (0-92979), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (HMM-163), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 16, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Bergman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Kenmare, North Dakota

BERMAN, STUART C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Stuart C. Berman (0-94544), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Tank Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 21, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Berman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New York, New York

*BERNARD, HENRY W., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Henry W. Bernard, Jr. (2322441), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 29, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bernard upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Willimantic, Connecticut

BERRY, JOHNNY K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Johnny K. Berry (2006360), Gunnery Sergeant [then Sergeant], U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an 81- mm. Mortar Forward Observer with Company I, Third Battalion, First Marine Regiment in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 22 December 1967. On patrol during Operation Fortress Ridge, Gunnery Sergeant Berry's platoon came under intense enemy automatic weapons fire which pinned down two of the platoon's three weapons squads and killed and wounded a number of Marines. Gunnery Sergeant Berry immediately assisted the platoon commander in directing the two pinned down squads, maneuvering the one mobile squad, and calling in 81 mm mortar fire. After two wounded Marines were sighted in open terrain and an attempt to reach them was aborted when rescue personnel were hit by enemy fire, Gunnery Sergeant Berry and the platoon's corpsman jumped up and ran to their aid. They picked up the wounded men and ran back across the exposed, open terrain, carrying the injured Marines to the relative safety of the platoon perimeter. Gunnery Sergeant Berry, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, bravely subjected himself to intense hostile fire to effect the rescue of two fellow Marines who might possibly have died without his assistance. By his daring action, exemplary presence of mind, and selfless devotion to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Berry reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio

BERRY, LARRY J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Larry J. Berry, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on . By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Berry upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BETTS, ALBERT L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Albert L. Betts (1982176), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 6, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Betts upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: West Palm Beach, Florida

BEYERLEIN, DAVID
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David Beyerlein (2217783), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 February 1969.
Home Town: Portland, Oregon

BIANCHINO, RICHARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard L. Bianchino (0-88193), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 April 1969, Captain Bianchino launched as Copilot aboard the lead aircraft in a flight of CH-46 transport helicopters assigned the emergency medical evacuation of seriously wounded Marines from an area south of DaNang. During the approach to the landing zone, the aircraft came under intensive hostile fire from several directions which extensively damaged its vital components and caused it to crash land through a triple jungle canopy and burst into flames. Thrown from the transport and rendered temporarily unconscious, Captain Bianchino quickly recovered and found his left arm broken in three places and his face and arms severely lacerated. After painfully forcing his arm into the front of his survival vest, using it as a sling, he quickly assessed the situation. Observing one of his crew members pinned beneath the burning wreckage, he extricated the casualty and pulled him clear of the crash site, extinguishing the man's flaming clothing as he did so. Boldly ignoring the ammunition exploding about the helicopter as a result of the intense heat, he then searched for other survivors and, locating another injured man lying beneath the fiercely burning aircraft, pulled his companion to a safe location and put out the flames which threatened to engulf him. Exhausted from his exertions and the excruciating pain of his own wounds, Captain Bianchino collapsed, although he did not lose consciousness. Several minutes later, he heard helicopters overhead and, realizing the need to signal the location of the crash area to the rescuers, removed three regular rounds from his pistol and inserted three flare rounds with his teeth, discharging them through the jungle canopy when he heard the aircraft again pass over his position. During the subsequent recovery operation, the weather rapidly deteriorated and, fearing that gusty winds buffeting the CH-46 would force the pilot to abort the mission, Captain Bianchino steadfastly refused to be evacuated until all other casualties were safely embarked. His heroic and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several Marines. By his courage, selfless concern for his fellowmen and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Captain Bianchino upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."
Home Town: Albany, New York

BIBEAU, ARTHUR K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arthur K. Bibeau (2378231), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 11th Engineer Battalion, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 24, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bibeau upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Boston, Massachusetts

*BIBER, JOSEPH F. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Joseph F. Biber (2198273), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 19, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Biber upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Lompoc, California

BICKERT, EDWARD T., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward T. Bickert, Jr. (2279268), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with 2d Combined Action Group, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 7, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bickert upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BICKFORD, THOMAS E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bickford (0-96171), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Forward Observer, 3d Battalion, 11th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 18 - 25, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bickford upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Flandreau, South Dakota

BICKLEY, LEROY A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Leroy A. Bickley (0-77461), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 26, 1970. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Bickley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Sandusky, Ohio

BIDDULPH, STEPHEN G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Stephen G. Biddulph (0-115801), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 11 - 13, 1972. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Biddulph upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Rexburg, Idaho

BIGGERS, ARCHIE J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Archie J. Biggers (0-107246), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 20 February 1969.
Home Town: San Diego, California

*BIGGS, JIMMY D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Jimmy D. Biggs (2451993), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Shortly after midnight on 7 December 1968, Private First Class Biggs was occupying a listening post in Quang Nam Province when he alertly observed two North Vietnamese Army squads advancing toward his company's position. Realizing the enemy's intent, he quickly led his men in directing a heavy volume of fire on the advancing hostile force, killing several of the attackers and forcing the remaining soldiers to retreat in panic and confusion. Subsequently, the following morning, he was leading his squad back to the scene of the evening's battle when the Marines came under intense enemy machine gun fire and sustained several casualties. Observing his mortally wounded squad leader among the injured, Private First Class Biggs unhesitatingly took command of his unit, and rapidly establishing a defensive perimeter, he coordinated the extraction of casualties while continually appraising the platoon commander of the tactical situation. As Company A resumed its advance, the Marines again came under heavy North Vietnamese machine gun fire, and quickly pinpointing a hostile emplacement, Private First Class Biggs fearlessly assaulted the enemy soldiers. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting near him, he had boldly advanced to within ten meters of the North Vietnamese machine gun when Private First Class Biggs was mortally wounded by the intense enemy fire. His daring initiative and heroic efforts inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty, Private First Class Biggs upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

BILLINGS, ROGER L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Roger L. Billings (2361338), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 22, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Billings upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

BILLUPS, JOSH L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Josh L. Billups (2471975), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 12, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Billups upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

*BINGENHEIMER, JAMES (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James Bingenheimer (156346736), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 15, 1971. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bingenheimer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Atlantic City, New Jersey

BIRD, CHARLES U., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles U. Bird, Jr. (1610661), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 3d Amphibious Tractor Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 9, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bird upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Ogden, Utah

BIRD, LOREN W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Loren W. Bird (1517379), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 11, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Bird upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

BISKEY, ROBERT A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert A. Biskey (1871095), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 5, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Biskey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Hill City, Minnesota

BLACK, CHARLES H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles H. Black (0-62737), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 6, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Black upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Dumfries, Virginia

BLACK, ROBERT A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert A. Black, Jr. (0-87392), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Viet Nam. On 6 July 1968, Company B was occupying a defensive position on Hill 881 South in Quang Tri Province when the Marines suddenly came under an intense North Vietnamese mortar attack. Disregarding his own safety, Captain Black fearlessly maneuvered about the fire-swept terrain while directing the recovery of friendly casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, he ably supervised the movement of his company to Hill 689, unhesitatingly exposing himself to hostile fire while ensuring that his men were expeditiously embarked aboard the extraction helicopters. Arriving at the designated area, he skillfully established his company in a defensive perimeter and directed his men to positions from which they could effectively support elements of the battalion operating in the area. When the battalion was attacked on the night of 7 July by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force, he immediately deployed a reinforcing platoon, enabling the Marines to successfully repulse the enemy. Despite a critical shortage of personnel and the imminent danger of hostile attack, Captain Black steadfastly refused to withdraw from his vital position. Subsequently, after numerous enemy probes, his company was assaulted by a numerically superior hostile force employing mortars and recoilless rifles. Ignoring the intense fire, he courageously moved about the hazardous area, encouraging his men and directing their fire upon the advancing hostile soldiers. Continuing his determined efforts, he skillfully adjusted extremely close artillery and 81-mm. mortar fire and aggressively controlled his company until the enemy was forced to flee in panic and confusion. His bold initiative and resolute determination were a source of great inspiration to his men and enabled his company to account for numerous enemy killed. By his courage, aggressive leadership and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Captain Black contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii

BLACKBURN, GLENN J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Glenn J. Blackburn (2160441), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 4, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private Blackburn upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Dover, Massachusetts

*BLACKMAN, THOMAS J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Thomas J. Blackman (2398632), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with , in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 10, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Blackman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Racine, Wisconsin

*BLACKWELL, KENNETH G. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Kenneth G. Blackwell (2400695), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 23, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Blackwell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Tucson, Arizona

BLADES, ARTHUR C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arthur C. Blades (0-90430), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 10, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Blades upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: West Hampton Beach, New York

BLAIR, FRANK S., III
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Frank S. Blair, III (0-92681), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 21, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Blair upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BLAIR, FRANK S., III
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Frank S. Blair, III (0-92681), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 14, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Blair upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

BLAIR, JOHN D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John D. Blair (2208761), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 27, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Blair upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Columbus, Georgia

BLAIR, LAWRENCE K., III
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lawrence K. Blair, III (1643102), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Blair upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Worcester, Massachusetts

BLAND, RICHARD P. L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard P. L. Bland (0-80411), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group THIRTY-SIX (MAG-36), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 4 June 1968, Captain Bland was Aircraft Commander of a CH-46 transport helicopter assigned to extract a ten man reconnaissance team that had sustained a casualty and was in danger of being overrun by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force in Thau Thien Province. Proceeding to the designated area despite rapidly deteriorating weather conditions, he effectively coordinated the rocket and strafing runs of supporting gunships with the suppressive fire of his aerial gunners against hostile positions within thirty meters of the friendly perimeter. Upon being informed that the reconnaissance team had sustained additional casualties, he maneuvered his aircraft to a hover twenty feet above the dense jungle canopy and steadfastly ignored the heavy volume of enemy fire directed at his helicopter during the forty minutes required to hoist the wounded men aboard, simultaneously directing all available suppressive fire against the hostile positions. Despite the severe battle damage sustained by his aircraft, he skillfully departed the hazardous area and proceeded under the heavy overcast to a medical facility at Phu Bai. Obtaining another helicopter, he quickly returned to the reconnaissance team's position and, coordinating his approach with two gunships, unhesitatingly established a hover over the beleaguered men. Undaunted by the extremely heavy volume of enemy fire, he steadfastly held his exposed position for thirty minutes until the remaining five Marines were hoisted aboard before expeditiously departing for Phu Bai. Later that afternoon, Captain Bland again responded to an urgent request to extract another reconnaissance team heavily engaged with the enemy along the side of a ridge. Maintaining a 150 foot hover for fifty minutes in the face of intense hostile fire, he succeeded in extracting the entire team and then returned to his base. By his courage, superb airmanship and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Captain Bland undoubtedly saved the lives of several Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

BLANKENSHIP, DENNIS R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Dennis R. Blankenship (1690600), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, Force Reconnaissance Battalion, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 20, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Blankenship upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Coalwood, West Virginia

BLANKENSHIP, SIDNEY H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Sidney H. Blankenship (1547310), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 8, 1967 to April 1, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Blankenship upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Huntington, West Virginia

BLANTON, CHARLES G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles G. Blanton, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 16, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Blanton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BLEACHER, RONALD T. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Ronald T. Bleacher (2283664), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 29, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bleacher upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Marshallton, Delaware

BLIZZARD, DAVID W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David W. Blizzard (0-100870), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 9, 1971. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Blizzard upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Ocean City, New Jersey

BLOCKER, EUGENE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Eugene Blocker (1904253), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 February 1967.
Home Town: Adah, Pennsylvania

BLOOMBERG, RICHARD N.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard N. Bloomberg (0-92595), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Attack Squadron 121 (VMA(AW)-121), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 10, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Bloomberg upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

*BLOUGH, DAVID A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to David A. Blough (2378332), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 28, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Blough upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Spencer, Massachusetts

BOATMAN, MICHAEL L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael L. Boatman (2373653), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 7, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Boatman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Lakewood, Colorado

BOBAK, RAYMOND W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond W. Bobak, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 12, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Bobak upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio

*BOBIAN, RALPH D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Ralph D. Bobian (2304829), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 20 December 1967, Lance Corporal Bobian was a member of a nine-man assault unit which ambushed a numerically superior Viet Cong force in the vicinity of Happy Valley in Quang Nam Province. During the ensuing fire fight, he skillfully delivered accurate machine-gun fire which inflicted heavy casualties on the Viet Cong until they fled in panic and confusion. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Bobian joined a reaction force and unhesitatingly pursued the retreating enemy. Suddenly the Marines came under intense small-arms, automatic weapons, and grenade launcher fire from concealed positions on their flank. Reacting instantly, Lance Corporal Bobian aggressively attacked the enemy force, firing his weapon from the hip as he fearlessly advanced across the fire-swept terrain. Observing a wounded comrade lying in an area dangerously exposed to the hostile fire, he ran to the injured man and calmly directed suppressive fire at the enemy while he stood between the casualty and the hostile force, using his body as a shield to protect his fallen comrade. Then, wounded by the hostile fire, he fell to the ground. Despite his painful injury, he crawled forward and propped himself against a bush where he continued to provide protective fire until he was mortally wounded by enemy machine-gun fire. His resolute determination and aggressive fighting spirit in the face of grave personal danger were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his steadfast courage, outstanding initiative, and unfaltering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Bobian upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial 3636 (March 23, 1968)
Born: March 13, 1949 at Pittsburg, California
Home Town: Denver, Colorado

BODENWEISER, ALEC J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alec J. Bodenweiser (0-103347), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander, Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 5 February 1968, Company E was occupying a defensive position on Hill 861-A near the Khe Sanh Combat Base when the company came under a fierce coordinated attack by a reinforced North Vietnamese Army battalion supported by heavy artillery and mortar fire. Captain Bodenweiser, than a Second Lieutenant, acting as Company Executive Officer, was assigned to coordinate the second and third platoons in defense of the western, southern and eastern portions of the perimeter. When North Vietnamese sappers breached the defensive wire as a part of a two-pronged attack to overrun Hill 861-A with a heavy volume of fire from automatic weapons, RPG rockets, and grenades, Captain Bodenweiser immediately re-deployed his Marines and effectively halted the advancing enemy inside the perimeter. Captain Bodenweiser completely disrupted the enveloping attack of a numerically superior enemy force and forced the North Vietnamese to abandon their attempt to envelope E Company, significantly contributing to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. Captain Bodenweiser's heroic initiative and outstanding leadership reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Salem, Oregon

*BOECK, GARY R. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Gary R. Boeck (472-64-3165), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 6 January 1971, while patrolling in the Que Son region of Quang Nam Province, Lance Corporal Boeck's squad came under a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire from North Vietnamese Army soldiers occupying well concealed emplacements in the dense jungle growth and, during the initial moments of the assault, Lance Corporal Boeck was seriously wounded. Realizing the strategic value of his position at the head of the squad and instantly aware of the need for immediate reaction, he quickly directed his companions to deploy into more effective fighting positions. From his vulnerable location in full view of the hostile soldiers, he commenced delivering rapid grenade launcher fire at the enemy and, although sustaining additional painful injuries while thus engaged, vigorously continued his determined efforts until he was mortally wounded by hostile fire. His heroic and valiant actions inspired all who observed him and provided the other members of his squad the time and opportunity to achieve fire superiority and defeat the North Vietnamese Army force. By his courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Lance Corporal Boeck upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Home Town: Braham, Minnesota

BOGART, JOHN G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John G. Bogart (0-106510), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 16, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bogart upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chappaqua, New York

BOHN, ROBERT D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert D. Bohn (0-37498), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 27, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Colonel Bohn upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Alexandria, Virginia
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)

BOILLOT, DAVID A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David A. Boillot (0-102669), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 19, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Boillot upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Rye, New York

BOLDES, JAMES M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James M. Boldes, Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with , in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 3 - 5, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Boldes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BOLDING, BENJAMIN FOREST (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Benjamin Forest Bolding (2257470), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 15, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bolding upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Moore, Oklahoma

BOLDUC, GEORGE J.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George J. Bolduc (0-103348), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 7, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bolduc upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BOLDUC, GEORGE J.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to George J. Bolduc (0-103348), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 18, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bolduc upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New York, New York
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

BOLES, JAMES M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James M. Boles (2128736), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 9, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Boles upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Irontown, Ohio

BOLLMAN, HENRY C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Henry C. Bollman (0-85842), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (HMM-165), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 11, 1972. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Bollman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

BOLTON, GILBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gilbert Bolton (1892020), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company M, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Very early in the morning on 2 November 1967, Staff Sergeant Bolton's platoon, occupying its combat base on Hill 25, came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire from a force composed of an estimated 100 Viet Cong soldiers. In the initial moments of the vicious attack, the platoon command post was destroyed by an enemy satchel charge. Escaping from the burning and collapsing command bunker and realizing that the unit's primary radio was inoperable, Staff Sergeant Bolton fearlessly maneuvered through the intense enemy fire to the bunker where the secondary radio was located. Encouraging his men, he then quickly manned the radio and called in and adjusted an artillery illumination mission over the area, which revealed the enemy penetrating the defensive wire. Without hesitation, Staff Sergeant Bolton organized a blocking force and succeeded in stopping the penetration at one point, but failed to drive the enemy back. As the determined Viet Cong continued to surge over the hill, he realized that drastic measures were required to save his platoon. Displaying bold initiative and extraordinary courage, Staff Sergeant Bolton, unable to contact the platoon commander, directed his men into their bunkers and, with exceptional composure, called for six 105-mm. Variable Timed Fuze fire missions on his own position. After the fire missions were completed and the remaining Viet Cong had been driven from the hill, he rallied his men, directed the recovery of casualties and assisted in reorganizing the platoon's defensive perimeter. His decisive actions and sound judgment were instrumental in repulsing the enemy assault and in preventing additional casualties in his platoon. By his extraordinary courage, superb leadership and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Staff Sergeant Bolton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Portsmouth, Ohio

BOLTON, MICHAEL L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael L. Bolton, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 18, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bolton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BONNELYCKE, CLYDE L.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Navy Award) to Clyde L. Bonnelycke (US-MC-1806071/USA-1806021), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company C, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 January 1968, Sergeant Bonnelycke's platoon was assigned to assist a friendly unit which had become heavily engaged with numerically superior enemy force north of the Cua Viet River in Quang Tri Province. Upon reaching the unit, the Marines became pinned down by a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire from numerous fortified hostile positions. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Bonnelycke unhesitatingly exposed himself to the intense fire and fearlessly maneuvered across twenty-five meters of fire-swept terrain toward an enemy bunker. Upon reaching the hostile emplacement, he boldly threw a hand grenade into it, silencing the enemy fire and enabling his unit to continue its attack. His heroic actions and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit accounting for twenty-three enemy soldiers confirmed killed. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Sergeant Bonnelycke contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
Personal Awards: 2@ Army Silver Stars (Vietnam), Navy Silver Star (Vietnam)

BONSPER, DONALD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald E. Bonsper (0-91908), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 9, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Bonsper upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Portville, New York

BOOK, FLOYD GORDON, JR.
(First Award)
Citation:
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.
Home Town: Hammond, Indiana
Personal Awards: Navy Silver Star (Vietnam), Army Silver Star (Vietnam)

BOOMER, WALTER E.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Walter E. Boomer (0-79957), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 5, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Boomer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BOOMER, WALTER E.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Walter E. Boomer (0-79957), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 30 - April 3, 1972. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Boomer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Rich Square, North Carolina
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

BOONE, SAMUEL J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Samuel J. Boone, Jr. (2294933), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 30 March 1968, during Operation SCOTLAND, Company B was conducting a patrol near the Khe Sanh Combat Base, when the Marines came under intense mortar and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior, well entrenched North Vietnamese Army force and sustained numerous casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Boone rapidly deployed his men and unhesitatingly launched a determined assault against the enemy positions. Disregarding his own safety, he boldly moved to the front of his unit and fearlessly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain, delivering a heavy volume of suppressive fire upon the fortified emplacements, ignoring the hostile rounds impacting near him. He quickly destroyed two enemy bunkers and, when his men advanced to his position, he skillfully maneuvered them from one hostile emplacement to another, effectively silencing the enemy fire. Ordered to break contact when the intensity of the hostile mortar fire increased, Corporal Boone repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire as he moved about the hazardous area, providing covering fire while his comrades evacuated the casualties and withdrew to more advantageous terrain. His heroic actions and bold leadership inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit accounting for 115 North Vietnamese soldiers confirmed killed. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Boone upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

*BOOTY, LARRY O. J. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Larry O. J. Booty (2062303), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 8, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Booty upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Glenwell Springs, Louisiana

BOSLEY, CHARLES W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles W. Bosley (2122523), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Bosley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Greencastle, Indiana

BOSS, OTIS E., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Otis E. Boss, Jr. (2363521), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 2, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Boss upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BOSSER, JOHNNY S. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Johnny S. Bosser (521685259), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 August 1969, while Company K was conducting a search and destroy operation in Quang Nam Province, the lead platoon was pinned down by small arms, automatic weapons, and antiaircraft fire from North Vietnamese Army soldiers concealed in spider holes and other well-camouflaged emplacements. Realizing the need for immediate action, Lance Corporal Bosser boldly commenced moving his fire team to a forward position, but was halted by vicious hostile cross fire and sustained two casualties. Directing his remaining riflemen to provide covering fire, he then crawled alone across the fire-swept terrain to a dangerously exposed knoll from which he could observe enemy activities. Seeing a sniper in a spider hole to his right front, he boldly stood up and, executing evasive maneuvers, ran toward the hostile position, but was extensively wounded in the arm when he was within five meters of his objective. Although suffering intense pain, he crawled forward and, when he reached the emplacement, leaped to his feet and killed the sniper with a hand grenade. Valiantly returning to his original position, he encountered a Marine casualty and, dropping to the ground, commenced dragging himself and the casualty toward a covered location, but after traveling only ten meters was mortally wounded by enemy fire. His heroic and dauntless actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the defeat of the enemy. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Bosser saved the life of a fellow Marine and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Fort Lupton, Colorado

BOST, BARRY N.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Barry N. Bost (2315872), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 17, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bost upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Kannapolis, North Carolina

BOTELLO, ALFRED L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alfred L. Botello (1961587), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 19, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Botello upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Austin, Texas

BOTT, DANIEL J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Daniel J. Bott (1694088), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 25, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Bott upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New York, New York

BOURNE, FRANK L., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Frank L. Bourne, Jr. (0-52717), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 16, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bourne upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

BOWER, BURTON K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Burton K. Bower (2238843), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 18 May 1968 during Operation ALLEN BROOK, Companies L and M became heavily engaged with North Vietnamese Army forces in well concealed, fortified and mutually supporting positions in a tree line. In the ensuing battle, friendly casualties from enemy machine gun, automatic weapons and small arms fire rapidly increased and Company L was pinned down while evacuating the wounded. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Private First Class Bower picked up twelve Light Antitank Assault Weapons and his rifle and unhesitatingly moved to the point of heaviest contact. Completely disregarding his own safety, he stood in the open, exposed to hostile fire and began delivering accurate rocket fire into the enemy positions. Although the North Vietnamese concentrated their fire against him, he steadfastly maintained his position in the hazardous area and was painfully wounded in the shoulder. Undaunted, he continued to deliver rocket fire into the hostile emplacements until he had expended his ordnance. He then began delivering a heavy volume of accurate rifle fire and received a second wound and was medically evacuated. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Private First Class Bower contributed materially to the subsequent defeat of the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Springfield, Massachusetts

*BOYER, ROBERT L. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Robert L. Boyer (2234967), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 28, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Boyer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Long Beach, California

BRADDOCK, HAROLD T., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harold T. Braddock, Jr. (2083160), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 16, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Braddock upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Holden, Massachusetts

BRADDON, JOHN R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John R. Braddon (0-57518), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as leader of a section of helicopters, attached to and serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, charged with rescue and maintenance relative to downed aircraft as the result of enemy action on 27 April 1964. On that date, the entire squadron was committed to the mission of landing over four hundred troops of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam in an offensive action against the insurgent communist guerrillas (Viet Cong). In the course of the initial assault lift into the contested zone, one of the aircraft was fatally hit and crash landed into the zone. Major Braddon, without hesitation, departed from his position and flew into the direct opposition of the gun that had just downed the crew he was determined to rescue. In doing so, he had to fly into the contested area as a single target allowing all of the enemy automatic weapons to concentrate their fire on him. Major Braddon's aircraft was hit and seriously damaged by .50 caliber fire. This did not deter him in his mission as he landed near the dismounted crew. Subsequently, Major Braddon once again flew his aircraft into the face of enemy fire to land and evacuate the crew of another helicopter which was badly damaged and crash landed in the same area. By his selfless and daring actions and his loyal devotion to duty in the face of great personal risk, Major Braddon upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Wellsville, New York

*BRADLEY, GERALD G. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Gerald G. Bradley (2394208), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 15, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bradley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Braintree, Massachusetts

BRADLEY, JOHN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John M. Bradley (2306247), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 27, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bradley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Buffalo, New York

BRADY, EUGENE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Eugene R. Brady (0-51664), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Commanding Officer of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in conjunction with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 26 February 1969, Lieutenant Colonel Brady launched as Aircraft Commander aboard a CH-46 transport helicopter assigned the emergency medical evacuation of seven casualties from a Marine position 5,000 meters north of An Hoa. Undaunted by the extremely heavy volume of hostile small arms, automatic weapons, and machine gun fire directed against his aircraft, he skillfully maneuvered to a landing in the fire-swept area and resolutely remained in a dangerously exposed position until all the wounded Marines were embarked. When his helicopter sustained serious battle damage, rupturing the fuel lines and rendering most of the aircraft's systems inoperable, Lieutenant Colonel Brady skillfully maneuvered his crippled CH-46 to an emergency landing 250 meters from the perimeter he had just left. Directing the immediate disembarkation of the casualties from the fuel saturated cabin, he established a tight defensive perimeter and completely disregarding his own safety while moving to each Marine's position to encourage them, check injuries, and ensure maximum fire was being delivered against the enemy. When one of the injured Marines sprang from the perimeter and ran toward his company's position, he collapsed. Oblivious to the enemy rounds impacting near him, Lieutenant Colonel Brady fearlessly dashed to the side of the wounded man and carried him back to a covered position. By his inspiring courage, superior airmanship, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Brady reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval service.
Home Town: York, Pennsylvania
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (Vietnam), Silver Star (Vietnam)

BRADY, PHILLIP O.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Phillip O. Brady (0-82115), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 31, 1964. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brady upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BRANDON, JACK A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jack A. Brandon (0-66095), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 31, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Brandon upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: El Paso, Texas

BRANDON, WAYNE HARRIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Wayne Harris Brandon (0-100069), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifle Platoon Commander and subsequently as Executive Officer of Company K, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the evening of 6 September 1967, during Operation Swift, Company K was assigned the mission of reinforcing another unit that was heavily engaged with a large North Vietnamese Army force. Upon reaching the besieged unit, Second Lieutenant BRANDON led a patrol out of the defensive positions to search for casualties who were separated from their unit. Returning through the darkness with his patrol and six wounded Marines, he observed enemy emplacements that were delivering intense automatic weapons fire and mortar fire on Company K. Disregarding his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fire in order to pinpoint the enemy locations to his men and enable his unit to bring accurate suppressive fire against the hostile force thereby relieving the pressure on his company. Wounded by fragments from an enemy grenade, he disregarded his painful injury and during the ensuing fire fight, led his men in silencing two machine guns and two mortar positions. Upon reaching his company, he established the platoon in the defensive perimeter just prior to a determined enemy assault. When the company executive officer was seriously wounded, Second Lieutenant BRANDON immediately assumed his duties and, firing a rifle and throwing grenades, maneuvered about the fire-swept terrain from one position to another directing the fire of the company and shouting words of encouragement to his men. Refusing medical aid for his own wound, he assisted the company commander in reorganizing the company after repulsing the enemy attack and, throughout the remainder of the night, continuously inspected the defensive positions. Only after ensuring that all other casualties had received medical aid did he allow himself to be treated. His aggressive fighting spirit and heroic efforts were an inspiration to all who served with him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his steadfast courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Second Lieutenant BRANDON upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Martin, Tennessee

BRANK, WALTER S., III
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Walter S. Brank, III (2212179), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (HMM-165), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 5, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Brank upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Jonesboro, Tennessee

BRANSCOMBE, ROBERT A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert A. Branscombe (2157195), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combined Action Platoon B-1, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 6, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Branscombe upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Glendale, California

BREEDING, EARLE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Earle G. Breeding (0-80698), Major [then Captain], U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 5 February 1968, Company E was occupying a defensive position on Hill 861 near the Khe Sanh Combat Base when the perimeter came under a fierce attack by a North Vietnamese Army battalion supported by artillery and mortar fire. Quickly assessing the situation, Major Breeding re-deployed his Marines to strengthen the perimeter at the point of heaviest contact and coordinated the delivery of a large volume of concentrated fire at the enemy. During the ensuing fire fight, he repeatedly disregarded his own safety as he moved from one position to another, directing and encouraging his men and adjusting supporting arms fires. While his Marines pinned the advancing enemy down on the defensive wire with accurate small arms fire, Major Breeding advanced to a dangerously exposed vantage point and directed close-in artillery and mortar fires with expert precision, completely disrupting the organized attack and forced the enemy to withdraw. Under his inspiring leadership, his unit accounted for over 100 North Vietnamese soldiers killed and captured a huge quantity of weapons. By his courage, extraordinary initiative, and unflagging devotion to duty at great personal risk, Major Breeding contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Roswell, New Mexico

BRENNAN, JOHN L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John L. Brennan (0-100072), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (HMM-364), Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN (MAG-16), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Late on the night of 12 February 1969, First Lieutenant Brennan launched as Section Leader of a flight of two CH-46 transport helicopters assigned the medical evacuation of a casualty from a Second Republic of Korea Marine Brigade unit heavily engaged with a hostile force in Quang Nam Province. Arriving over the designated area, he was briefed on the tactical situation and was informed that the landing zone was under enemy rocket-propelled grenade, mortar, small arms, and automatic weapons fire. Forced to abort his first approach because of the intensity of the hostile fire, several rounds of which damaged his aircraft, First Lieutenant Brennan, realizing the urgency of extracting the wounded man, resolutely commenced his second approach. After requesting the ground force to pinpoint the enemy positions with ground flares and extinguishing his helicopter's external running lights, he skillfully coordinated his approach with the fire of supporting Marine gunships and landed in the fire-swept area. Quickly embarking the Korean Marine, he departed for the nearest medical facility. First Lieutenant Brennan obtained another CH-46 transport helicopter when the first one was grounded because of extensive battle damage and resolutely returned to the hazardous area. Undaunted by the extremely heavy volume of hostile fire again directed against his aircraft and the lack of supporting gunships, he completely disregarded his own safety as he fearlessly maneuvered his helicopter through the withering enemy fire and landed in the dangerous area. Ignoring the hostile rounds impacting in the area, he boldly remained in his dangerously exposed position until all the wounded were embarked before lifting out of the hazardous area and departing for the medical facility. By his courage, superior airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, First Lieutenant Brennan was instrumental in saving the lives of the Korean Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Woodbridge, Virginia

*BRENNO, WESLEY CRAIG (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Wesley Craig Brenno (2310818), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in the vicinity of DaNang Province, Vietnam, on 20 March 1967. While leading his machine gun team on a search through an area of suspected Viet Cong activity, Private First Class Brenno dispersed his team to cover the widest possible area and simultaneously avoid multiple casualties from enemy mines or surprise attacks. With complete disregard for his own safety, he unhesitatingly assumed the hazardous point position and while fearlessly advancing at the front of his team, he was severely wounded by an enemy mine. Despite the intense pain, he valiantly continued to direct his men, urging them forward to complete their mission. By his courageous leadership, marked fortitude and aggressive fighting spirit, Private First Class Brenno served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the mission. His selfless and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Larson, North Dakota

BRENT, LAWRENCE J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lawrence J. Brent (2079230), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 20, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Brent upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

BREWER, HERMAN R., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Herman R. Brewer, Jr. (2055993), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Amphibious Tractor Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 6, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Brewer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Miami, Florida

BRICK, GEORGE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George E. Brick (2217775), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Forward Air Controller with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 17 August 1968, during Operation Mameluke Thrust, Company M was conducting a search and destroy operation in the village of Phu Loc in Quang Nam Province when the Marines became heavily engaged with a large North Vietnamese Army force. Alertly observing that the lead element was pinned down by intense mortar, antitank rocket and automatic weapons fire. Corporal BRICK unhesitatingly left his position of relative safety and ran across 100 meters of fire-swept terrain toward the point position, despite sustaining fragmentation wounds in his leg. Ignoring his painful injuries, he boldly maneuvered to a vantage point from which he skillfully commenced adjusting air strikes on the hostile emplacements. Continuing his determined efforts until the hostile force was completely disorganized, he enabled his company to initiate an assault on the enemy position. Observing three Marines fall wounded during the initial moments of the attack, Corporal BRICK completely disregarded his own safety and exposed himself to the heavy volume of hostile fire as he aided in moving the casualties to a landing zone for medical evacuation. Undaunted by constant enemy mortar fire, he steadfastly refused to seek cover while directing helicopters into the zone and assisting in embarking the wounded men. Although wounded in the arm and shoulder by enemy mortar fire impacting nearby, he resolutely remained and continued performing his life-saving duties until the seriousness of his wounds forced his evacuation on the following day. By his courage, determined efforts and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal BRICK undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Prineville, Oregon

BRICKEY, BILLY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Billy J. Brickey (1657083), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Squad Leader with Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 July 1966, Staff Sergeant Brickey's squad was serving as point for a company column, moving down a wide streambed, when the point fire team was ambushed at close range from enemy positions along the steep banks of the streambed. The fire team immediately sustained several casualties and was pinned down by heavy and accurate enemy automatic rifle fire. Maneuvering his remaining teams into positions to neutralize the enemy fire, Staff Sergeant Brickey left his place of relative safety to render aid to the wounded Marines. Continually and with complete disregard for his own safety, he crossed the exposed area under withering enemy fire to carry the wounded to safety. During one of his rescue attempts, Staff Sergeant Brickey was wounded by enemy fire and suffered wounds in his right arm and hand. Selflessly, he continued to direct fire on the enemy and to care for the wounded until they had all been moved to a safe position. After routing the enemy, Staff Sergeant Brickey directed the remainder of his squad in clearing a zone for the medical evacuation helicopter. His outstanding leadership and compassion for his fellow Marines inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several of his companions. By his extraordinary courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Brickey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."
Home Town: Hickory Ridge, Arkansas

BRIGHT, ROBERT, III
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert Bright, III (1692324), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 21, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bright upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Saddle River, New Jersey

BRISCO, JOSEPH O.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joseph O. Brisco (2450884), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 20, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Brisco upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

*BRITT, TED D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Ted D. Britt (2378809), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 30 March 1968, during Operation SCOTLAND. Company B was conducting a patrol near the Khe Sanh Combat Base when the Marines came under intense mortar and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior, well-entrenched North Vietnamese Army force and sustained numerous casualties. Directed to envelop the enemy positions, Private First Class Britt rapidly deployed his men and skillfully maneuvered them in a determined assault upon the flank of the hostile emplacements. Delivering a heavy volume of accurate fire, he boldly led his Marines through the fortified trench line, routing the enemy soldiers and seizing the positions. While reorganizing to continue the attack, his squad was suddenly pinned down by hostile mortar and machine gun fire. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Private First Class Britt alertly pinpointed the primary source of fire and unhesitatingly left his covered position to assault the automatic weapons emplacement. Fearlessly moving across the fire-swept terrain, he reached the fortified bunker and, delivering a heavy volume of accurate fire, killed four enemy soldiers and silenced the hostile fire. Continuing his determined efforts, he launched another attack against an enemy fighting hole, and while boldly advancing, he was fatally wounded. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit accounting for 115 North Vietnamese soldiers confirmed killed. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Britt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Decatur, Georgia

BRITTON, ALBERT K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Albert K. Britton (1820832), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 30, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Britton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

*BROADTMAN, HENRY R., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Henry R. Broadtman, Jr. (2384975), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 26, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Broadtman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Waggaman, Louisiana

*BRODRICK, STEVEN P. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Steven P. Brodrick (0-103916), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 11, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brodrick upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Selma, California

BRONARS, EDWARD J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward J. Bronars (0-50746), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 22, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Bronars upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

BROOKS, ROBERT P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert P. Brooks (0-73934), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 4, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Brooks upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: San Diego, California

BROPHY, DANIEL R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Daniel R. Brophy (0-82441), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with , in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 23, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brophy upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

*BROQUIST, STEVEN A. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Steven A. Broquist (0-94500), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 May 1967.
Home Town: Champaign, Illinois

BROWN, CALVIN F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Calvin F. Brown (1446627), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 14, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

BROWN, CHARLES L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles L. Brown (1998034), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 24, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee

BROWN, DAVID B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David B. Brown (0-82465), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 30, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Shillington, Pennsylvania

BROWN, GARY E.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gary E. Brown (0-88179), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 9, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BROWN, GARY E.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Gary E. Brown (0-88179), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 21, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: St. Petersburg, Florida
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

*BROWN, JAMES G. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James G. Brown (2080108), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 21, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Gatesville, Texas

BROWN, JAMES H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James H. Brown (0-103368), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with , in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on December 2, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BROWN, JAMES S., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James S. Brown, Jr. (0-94575), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 12th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on June 11, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Jackson, Mississippi

BROWN, JEROME WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jerome William Brown (295289076), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the Seventh Motor Transport Battalion, Force Logistic Command, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 13 February 1969, Major Brown was accompanying a fifty-truck convoy which was transporting fuel and ammunition from Dong Ha to the Vandegrift Combat Base when the Marines came under heavy small arms fire from a hostile force occupying well-concealed emplacements and a truck was destroyed by the detonation of a detonated mine. As the convoy halted, Major Brown left his relatively secure position at the rear of the convoy and with complete disregard for his own safety, proceeded through the intense enemy fire to the first vehicle where the convoy commander was attempting to establish communications with a forward observer. Directing the column to proceed, Major Brown shouted words of encouragement to the drivers as he returned across the dangerous terrain to his original position. When the vehicle operators attempted to move along the highway, they were again halted by increased hostile fire. Racing to the lead truck, Major Brown was informed by the convoy commander that close air support was coming to the assistance of the beleaguered unit. Returning to the rear, he directed the suppressive fire of a security force, supervised the embarkation of the wounded from the trucks, and skillfully adjusted air strikes to within fifty meters of the convoy as the vehicles commenced maneuvering out of the hazardous area. Fearlessly remaining behind until all Marines had departed, he requested bombing runs on the surrounding area before rejoining the convoy. By his courage, bold initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Major Brown inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio

*BROWN, JOSEPH C. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Joseph C. Brown (2047608), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, 3d Tank Battalion, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 30, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Pasadena, Maryland

BROWN, LAWRENCE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lawrence R. Brown (2089250), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an 81-mm. Mortar Forward Observer with Company I, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 September 1966, in the vicinity of An Noa, Lance Corporal Brown's Company was engaged in a fierce battle with Viet Cong forces. While attempting to maneuver into a flanking position, one squad became pinned down by heavy enemy fire in an open field, approximately 75 meters from the Company's positions. Exhibiting exceptional courage and bold initiative, Lance Corporal Brown immediately went to the aid of the wounded members of the squad. With complete disregard for his own safety, carrying two bamboo poles and a poncho, he worked his way across the open area under devastating enemy fire in order to reach the wounded Marines. While enemy machine guns delivered an intense volume of fire around him, and with the help of a fellow Marine, he moved the first wounded man onto the improvised stretcher and carried him to the friendly positions. Once again, Lance Corporal Brown, carrying the improvised stretcher, crossed the open area to successfully carry another wounded Marine to safety. On his way back from his third trip with the wounded Marines' weapons, Lance Corporal Brown collapsed from exhaustion as he reached the Company's positions. His bold initiative and compassion for his wounded companions inspired all who observed him. By his extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio

BROWN, LESLIE E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Leslie E. Brown (0-19930), Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 28, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Colonel Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Compton, California
Personal Awards: Silver Star (WWII), Silver Star (Vietnam)

*BROWN, MARC A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Marc A. Brown (2297413), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against enemy forces while serving as a Machine Gunner with the First Platoon, Company M, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced) in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 April 1967. During Operation UNION, two companies of the Third Battalion, First Marines were helilifted into the Que Son Valley, in the vicinity of Nui Loc Son to reinforce an infantry company that was heavily engaged by a numerically superior enemy force estimated to be of battalion strength. The well-entrenched enemy immediately began delivering devastating mortar and small arms fire on the companies. During the ensuing battle, Private First Class Brown observed his Platoon Commander and several other Marines wounded and in an exposed area. For more than an hour, enemy fire was so intense that numerous attempts to evacuate the wounded failed. Realizing that the only chance to extract the wounded was to gain fire superiority, Private First Class Brown left his position with a M-60 machine gun and ran forward into the open rice paddy. He brought his fire to bear on a tree line, giving his fellow Marines covering fire to evacuate the wounded. During the vicious exchange of fire, he was mortally wounded. By his bold initiative, dauntless courage and selfless devotion to duty, he was instrumental in saving his comrades from further injury or possible death thereby upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: August 2, 1947 at Newport, Rhode Island
Home Town: Long Beach, California

BROWN, MICHAEL A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael A. Brown (2453984), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 11, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

BROWN, MICHAEL R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael R. Brown, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Chief Scout of the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 9 August 1968, Company M of the Third Battalion was assaulting a large North Vietnamese Army Force occupying well fortified positions on Hill 310 in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of hostile fire and were pinned down. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Brown unhesitatingly left the relative safety of the battalion command post and maneuvered across 700 meters of dangerously exposed terrain to assist the beleaguered unit. Arriving at Company M's position, he boldly volunteered to lead a squad in an attack on the enemy's defenses. Ignoring the hostile rounds impacting near him, he aggressively maneuvered his squad toward the North Vietnamese force, and as the Marines approached the objective, he skillfully deployed his men and directed them in delivering suppressive fire. Disregarding his own safety, he then moved to the enemy's right flank and fearlessly launched an assault against a hostile position, silencing it with a hand grenade. Continuing his determined efforts, he then led his squad through the enemy's fortifications and directed his men in destroying two additional North Vietnamese emplacements. His bold initiative and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, aggressive leadership and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Sergeant Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Ohio

*BROWN, RICHARD JAMES (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Richard James Brown (2031415), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company K, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 September 1967. During Operation SWIFT, Sergeant Brown's unit was assigned the mission of aiding a Marine rifle company which was engaged with a numerically superior force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars in Quang Tin Province. Disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Brown unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a rescue detail forward of friendly lines to evacuate casualties and assist other Marines who were temporarily separated from their units. While maneuvering across the hazardous terrain, the rescue team came under increasingly heavy small-arms and automatic weapons fire and was forced to take cover in a nearby shell hole. As the Marines delivered effective return fire, an enemy hand grenade landed in the crater. Reacting instantly, Sergeant Brown ignored the danger to himself, picked up the deadly grenade and threw it out of the crater where it exploded. Although painfully wounded by grenade fragments, he continued to direct his unit's return fire and, when superiority was gained, led his men in the search for casualties. After supervising the evacuation of several wounded comrades, he observed an enemy mortar delivering fire against Marine positions. Deploying his men, he skillfully led them against the hostile emplacement and quickly silenced the enemy mortar and a nearby machine gun position. Subsequently, he directed the withdrawal of his men to friendly lines and assisted in consolidating the defensive perimeter. His heroic and timely actions in the face of great personal danger were an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives of several fellow Marines. By his courage, outstanding professionalism and selfless devotion to duty, Sergeant Brown contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 27, 1944 at Lakehurst, New Jersey
Home Town: Pine Beach, New Jersey

BROWN, TERRY R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Terry R. Brown, Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 28, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BROWN, WILLIE (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Willie Brown (2476128), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 24, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Brown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Tallahassee, Florida

*BROWNING, MICHAEL L. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Michael L. Browning (2251278), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Grenadier with Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 October 1967. While Lance Corporal Browning's squad was on a search and clear mission in the vicinity of the Tuy Loan River in Quang Nam Province, the point man and an companion were seriously injured when a booby trap was accidentally detonated. Ignoring the probable presence of other booby traps in the area, Lance Corporal Browning quickly moved forward to assist the wounded men. After rendering first aid, he placed one of the casualties across his shoulders and was proceeding toward the landing zone, when he detonated another booby trap hidden in the thick brushwood. With exceptional presence of mind, he placed the wounded man on the ground and, disregarding his own safety, shielded him from the blast with his own body. As a result of his intrepid actions, Lance Corporal Browning was mortally wounded by fragments from the exploding mine. His valiant effort to save the life of a fellow Marine at the risk of his own was an inspiration to all with whom he served. By his extraordinary courage, determination and selfless devotion to duty, he upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: May 23, 1948 at Oahu, Hawaii
Home Town: Fullerton, California

*BROYER, CLIFTON L. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Clifton L. Broyer (2249149), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 28, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Broyer upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Cataumer, Massachusetts

*BRUGGEMAN, DAVID C. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to David C. Bruggeman (172386431), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 1, 1972. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Bruggeman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

BRUINEKOOL, DEWAYNE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Dewayne G. Bruinekool (1975618), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division on 21 July 1967, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. En route to relieve an ambushed convoy, Corporal Bruinekool's company came under intense enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire. As his unit advanced on the enemy, he courageously led his fire team through heavy fire in an aggressive assault on the Viet Cong positions. While skillfully directing accurate fire on the enemy, he was wounded by and exploding grenade. Disregarding his painful wound, Corporal Bruinekool gallantly continued to lead and direct his men until he was seriously wounded again by an exploding enemy mortar, resulting in his medical evacuation and subsequent partial amputation of both his feet. His daring and heroic actions in the face of enemy fire were instrumental in his company's defeat of the Viet Cong force. By his exceptional leadership, resolute determination and inspiring devotion to duty, Corporal Bruinekool upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

*BRUNO, EDWARD (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Edward Bruno (72381541), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 6, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bruno upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Long Beach, New York

BRYAN, BYRON E., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Byron E. Bryan, Jr. (0-100083), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 30, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Bryan upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Wayne County, North Carolina

BRYANT, DAVID L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David L. Bryant (2205916), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Forward Observer, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 1, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Bryant upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Freeport, New York

BRYANT, DONALD L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald L. Bryant, Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 26th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 4, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Bryant upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BUCHHOLZ, EDWARD A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward A. Buckholz (2088095), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 23, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Buckholz upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Borger, Texas

BUCHS, CHRISTOPHER J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Christopher J. Buchs (2107157), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 18, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Buchs upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Fraser, Michigan

*BUCKLES, WILLIAM T. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to William T. Buckles (233245), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced,, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 6 February 1968, Company M was assisting an Army of the Republic of Vietnam unit that was engaged with a numerically superior North Vietnamese force. As the Marines maneuvered toward the enemy positions, they came under a heavy volume of small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire and sustained numerous casualties. Disregarding his own safety, Corporal Buckles moved across the fire-swept area and, evacuating several wounded men to positions of relative safety, skillfully administered first aid to the injured Marines. Observing an enemy machine gun that had his platoon pinned down, he obtained an M-79 grenade launcher and a pistol and fearlessly began maneuvering toward the hostile emplacement. Unhesitatingly moving forward, Corporal Buckles continued his aggressive assault until he was mortally wounded. In large measure due to his heroic actions and resolute determination, the enemy was forced to break contact and flee. By his courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Buckles inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: January 22, 1949 at Passaic, New Jersey
Home Town: Hollywood, Florida

BUCKLEY, ALTON L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alton L. Buckley (2260763), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 2, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Buckley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Nashville, Tennessee

BUCKNER, GORDON H., II
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gordon H. Buckner, II (0-65539), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 362 (HMM-362), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on November 18, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Buckner upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: St. Clair, Minnesota

BUDD, TALMAN C., III
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Talman C. Budd, III (0-57146), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 30 - 31, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Budd upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Rochester, New York

BULGER, THOMAS E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bulger (0-50747), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 4, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bulger upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Staten Island, New York
Personal Awards: Silver Star (Korea), Silver Star (Vietnam)

BULL, EDWARD D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward D. Bull (2306688), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 1, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Bull upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Memphis, Tennessee

BUNDA, GEORGE J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George J. Bunda (0-93008), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (HMM-265), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 10, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Bunda upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

BURCH, JAMES M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant James M. Burch (MCSN: 0-90802), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Commanding Officer of Company H, Second Battalion, Third Marines, and participating in Operation ALLEGHENY in the Dong Lam Mountains, Republic of Vietnam. On 26 August 1966, First Lieutenant Burch displayed an unusual degree of personal courage in action against tenacious and well dug-in Viet Cong forces. Fighting for its objective, the company went down onto the Viet Cong defenses, and was met by intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire pouring from caves, tunnels, and trees. The extremely dense jungle undergrowth and an eighty foot tree canopy overhead severely limited the use of supporting arms fires. Quickly grasping the situation, Lieutenant Burch directed one platoon to set up a base of fire, then led the remainder of his company in an assault on the well dug-in Viet Cong. Shouting words of encouragement to his men, he moved forward into the face of intense enemy small arms fire, and leading his company, assaulted through the viciously defended Viet Cong positions, destroying the enemy therein. Within the one hour period of the fire fight, 66 Viet Cong defenders had been killed and 23 had been wounded. His aggressive and fearless leadership in the face of heavy enemy small arms fire was an inspiration to all who observed him. By his daring actions and loyal devotion to duty in the face of great personal risk, Lieutenant Burch upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Hometown: Boligee, Alabama

BURCHETT, DONALD D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Donald D. Burchett (2139595), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 23, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Burchett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: South Charleston, West Virginia

BURCHETTE, JOHNNY R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Johnny R. Burchette (2226011), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 29, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Burchette upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Louisville, Kentucky

BURGESS, GLENN F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Glenn F. Burgess (0-100907), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 (HMM-364), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 26, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Burgess upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Waukegan, Illinois

BURGETT, GEORGE S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George S. Burgett (0-88652), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 13, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Burgett upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Chandler, Arizona

BURGHARDT, JAMES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James E. Burghardt (2215780), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 30, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Burghardt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Belmont, California

BURKE, FRANCIS M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Francis M. Burke (0-80135), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 September 1967.
Home Town: New York, New York

BURKE, NICHOLAS E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Nicholas E. Burke (0-74930), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 10, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Burke upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Niagra Falls, New York

BURKHARDT, DOUGLAS K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Douglas K. Burkhardt (2365259), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 5, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Burkhardt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BURLESON, EUGENE B., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Eugene B. Burleson, Jr. (0-76404), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 11, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Burleson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Citra, Florida

*BURNS, JOHN R., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John R. Burns, Jr. (0-101776), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 18, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Burns upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

BURNS, RAYMOND M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond M. Burns (0-91609), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 242 (VMA(AW)-242), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 27, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Burns upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Glynco, Georgia

BURNS, ROY THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Roy Thomas Burns (2264776), Private, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Assistant Team Leader with Company B, Third Reconnaissance Battalion, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 2 September 1967, Private Burns was the Point Man of an eight-man reconnaissance team which was inserted by helicopter deep in enemy controlled territory. Almost immediately upon leaving the landing zone, the patrol came under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from a hostile force located within 100 meters of the Marines' position. Reacting instantly, Private Burns and another Marine delivered a heavy volume of return fire and killed all four members of the enemy unit. Discovering that an estimated force of seventy North Vietnamese Army Regulars was attempting to encircle his team, the patrol leader withdrew his men to the helicopter landing zone while Private Burns provided rear security. As the patrol quickly established a defensive perimeter, Private Burns alertly observed an enemy mortar squad and delivered accurate suppressive fire which killed a North Vietnamese officer and kept the remainder of the squad pinned down while effective supporting arms fire was directed against their position. On two occasions, Private Burns unhesitatingly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to attack enemy soldiers who were attempting to penetrate the patrol's defenses. On each occasion, he fearlessly advanced across the fire-swept terrain to reach vantage points from which he delivered a sustained volume of rifle fire and threw hand grenades at the attackers. Although painfully wounded in the leg by an enemy round, he steadfastly remained in his dangerously exposed position until the enemy was repulsed and the Marines were safely evacuated from the area. In large measure due to his aggressive fighting spirit and calm presence of mind in the face of extreme personal danger, Private Burns was an inspiration to all who observed him and was instrumental in killing thirty-nine enemy soldiers. By his devotion to duty, Private Burns contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Garyville, Florida

BURNS, TERRY P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Terry P. Burns (0-86169), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 March 1968.
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas

*BURR, STEWART SAMUEL (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Stewart Samuel Burr (2255287), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 23, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Burr upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Passaic, New Jersey

*BURTON, JOHN T. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John T. Burton (2109309), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 18, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Burton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Mount Juliet, Tennessee

BURTON, RONALD E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Ronald E. Burton (2367230), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 12, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Burton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Mansfield, Ohio

BURTSELL, RONALD L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Ronald L. Burtsell (1075210), First Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 23, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Sergeant Burtsell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Santa Monica, California

BUTLER, CHRISTOPHER P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Christopher P. Butler (1403463), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, 2d Battalion, 12th Marines, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on October 20, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Butler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Galveston, Texas

BUTLER, JAMES T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James T. Butler (0-90634), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 164 (HMM-164), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 12, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Butler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Tampa, Florida

BUTLER, JOHN C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John C. Butler, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combined Action Company 1-1, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on May 9, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Staff Sergeant Butler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

*BUTLER, ROBERT H., JR. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Robert H. Butler, Jr. (1968622), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity In action while serving as a Squad Leader in Company, M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines on search and destroy operations against the North Vietnamese Army in. the Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 18 July 1966. Company M landed by helicopter in Quang Tri Province and immediately came under intense enemy automatic weapons and small-arms fire. Sergeant Butler, spotting an enemy machine-gun emplacement, maneuvered his squad in an attempt to destroy the vital position. Due to dense vegetation, he lost momentary contact with his squad. Unhesitatingly, he single-handedly continued the attack exposing himself to devastating fire, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, engaged the machine-gun position at close range and succeeded In destroying it. Shortly thereafter, Sergeant Butler was mortally wounded by sniper fire. His daring actions in the face of almost certain death served as a great inspiration to the men of his squad. By his heroic initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, he upheld the traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He Gallantly gave his life for his country.
Board Serial 1047 (February 16, 1967)
Born: March 19, 1944 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana

BUTT, THOMAS E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Butt (2172737), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 9th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on March 30, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Butt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Rockville, Maryland

BUTTRY, ROBERT L., JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert L. Buttry, Jr. (2307924), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on August 1, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Buttry upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

BUTTRY, ROBERT L., JR.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Robert L. Buttry, Jr. (2307924), Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 1, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal Buttry upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Personal Awards: 2@ Silver Stars (Vietnam)

BUTTS, JOHN D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John D. Butts (2038912), Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combined Action Company 1, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 10, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Butts upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Newport News, Virginia

BYERS, JAMES N., IV
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James N. Byers, IV (0-104543), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 11, 1968. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Byers upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Providence, Rhode Island

BYLER, EARL D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Earl D. Byler (0-106933), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 30, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Byler upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Denton, Texas

BYRNE, GERALD J., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gerald J. Byrne, Jr. (2208181), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on September 10, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Byrne upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Catskill, New York

*BYRNE, JOSEPH L., JR. (KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Joseph L. Byrne, Jr. (2116537), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 20, 1966. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Byrne upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Roscoe, Pennsylvania

BYRON, MICHAEL J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Michael J. Byron (0-88284), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on July 1, 1965. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, First Lieutenant Byron upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Santurce, Puerto Rico