The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

2ndLt BRUCE KOLTER

United States Marine Corps

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

    " The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Bruce Kolter, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company M, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 17 June 1969, Company M was participating in Operation Virginia Ridge approximately seven miles north of the Dong Ha Combat Base in Quang Tri Province. As the Marines crossed a large open field, the point platoon came under a heavy volume of fire from an estimated company-sized North Vietnamese Army force occupying well-concealed positions in a hedgerow. Reacting instantly, Second Lieutenant Kolter skillfully led his men in an assault on the hostile emplacements. Alertly observing two seriously wounded Marines lying in a position dangerously exposed to the enemy fire, he boldly maneuvered across forty meters of open area and removed them to a position of relative safety. Returning to his platoon, he fearlessly moved throughout the fire-swept terrain shouting instructions and encouragement to his men. While repeatedly exposing himself to the intense hostile fire to move accurately ascertain the enemy situation, Second Lieutenant Kolter was mortally wounded by hostile small arms fire. His bold initiative and sincere concern for the welfare of his fellowmen inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of two Marines. By his courage, aggressive leadership and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Kolter 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."