The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL to

LCpl ROSS A. LeBLANC

United States Marine Corps

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

    "The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Ross Allen LeBlanc, United States 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 insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 7 September 1967, Company I was assigned the mission of reinforcing another unit which had been ambushed and was heavily engaged with a large enemy force. Moving along National Route 9 near Ca Lu, the convoy was halted by a sudden explosion as the lead elements were approaching a woodline. Unhesitatingly, Lance Corporal LeBlanc advanced well forward of his platoon's point and, disregarding his own safety, moved across an open area in front of the woodline. Alertly observing movement and hearing noises in the densely forested area, he fearlessly charged the well concealed enemy positions and delivered a heavy volume of accurate rifle fire, killing three enemy soldiers. Courageously exposing himself to the sudden, intense enemy return fire, he continued his advance and silenced a Viet Cong machine gun. Throughout the ensuing fire fight, he repeatedly ignored his own safety in his efforts to destroy the hostile ambush site and its defenders. Largely due to his bold initiative and heroic actions, he forced the premature disclosure of the enemy positions which undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous Marines in the convoy and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his steadfast courage, resolute determination and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lance Corporal LeBlanc was an inspiration to all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."