The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the

BRONZE STAR MEDAL

CAPTAIN  JOHN H. ADMIRE

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

    For distinguishing himself by meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against a hostile force from 16 to 20 May 1969 while serving as Assistant Battalion Advisor, 3rd Marine Battalion, Armed Forces of the Republic of Vietnam.  On 16 May 1969, Captain ADMIRE’s battalion was on a search mission in coordination with a battalion of the 52nd Regiment, 18th Infantry Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam, when the 3d Battalion came in contact with a heavily armed battalion sized enemy force.  Through close coordination with his counterpart, he assisted in calling in artillery and airstrikes.  As the fighting intensified, Captain ADMIRE repeatedly exposed himself to the withering enemy fire, with complete disregard for his personal safety, to direct friendly fires on targets of opportunity and relay information to the Battalion Command post to aid in the adjustment of supporting artillery and airstrikes.  Throughout the contact, Captain ADMIRE assisted his couterpart in the placing of friendly postions to insure a complete defensive perimeter.  Through his expertise in battlefield tactics and fire support coordination, the friendly forces shifted from a defensive posture to a determined offense which broke the enemy ranks.  As a result of his inpiring leadership, the 3d Marine Battalion was able to achieve a hard won victory over a tenacious enemy.  During a second operation along the southern bank of the La Nga River, the battalion initiated and attack on the 22d Viet Cong Battalion.  Captain ADMIRE again showed outstanding skill while assisting his counterpart with the initiation and coordination of search and destroy patrols.  Captain ADMIRE’s outstanding achievement was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

For the President,

UNITED STATES MILIARY ASSISTANCE COMMAND