The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

 

SILVER STAR MEDAL to

 

CORPORAL DAVID R. MAGGI

 

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

 

For service as set forth in the following

 

CITATION:

 

           "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company I, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 September 1968, Company I was occupying a defensive position in the Cam Lo Valley when the Marines came under a series of hostile mortar attacks which caused numerous casualties.  Including all members of the second platoon’s command group.  Realizing that he was the senior Marine present, Corporal Maggi unhesitatingly assumed command of the platoon.  Displaying exceptional tactical knowledge, he reorganized the remaining members of the platoon, established a defensive perimeter, and judiciously distributed ordnance as needed.  Disregarding his own safety, he constantly patrolled his unit’s sector, encouraging his men at their fighting positions and ensuring their alertness.  When the corpsman was injured, Corporal Maggi repeatedly crossed the fire-swept terrain to render first aid to wounded Marines.  His almost limitless energy and aggressive fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission.  By his courage, superb leadership and unfaltering devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Maggi upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service."

 

FOR THE PRESIDENT

 

 

H. W. BUSE, JR

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC