The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Gunnar Gudjonsson (MCSN: 0-93148), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Advisor with the Fourth Infantry Battalion, Vietnamese Marine Corps engaged in armed conflict against the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong communist aggressors in the Republic of Vietnam. During the period 25 to 27 June 1971, Captain Gudjonsson was serving as an advisor to two reduced strength rifle companies that were tasked with the mission of defending Nui Ba Ho, a prominent hill mass that was a key defensive position. Throughout this period the position was continuously subjected to vicious enemy attacks in a determined attempt to overrun it. During the nights of 25 and 26 June the enemy launched exceptionally heavy ground attacks and due to poor weather and terrain, they were able to move within close proximity of the small perimeter. It was necessary to employ helicopter gunships and C119 Stingers throughout both nights to save the friendly position. As a result of the poor weather, the pilots of the supporting aircraft were unable to clearly define the friendly position and the intensity of the attack was such that the gunship fire was required almost within the perimeter of the friendly unit. Captain Gudjonsson unhesitatingly assumed full control and direction of the air assets. He repeatedly left the relative security of his bunker to personally direct and control the continuous air attacks, using his strobe light to mark the friendly positions for the attacking aircraft. Each time the strobe light was turned on, his position was inundated with a hail of enemy small arms and mortar fire. With full knowledge of his hazardous situation and with utter disregard for his own safety, he continued to signal the aircraft. Captain Gudjonsson’s extremely effective use of air support during the nights of 25 – 26 June successfully smashed the enemy ground attacks and resulted in several hundred enemy casualties. By his unconquerable fighting spirit, resolute courage and devotion to duty, Captain Gudjonsson was a positive factor in the successful defense of the position. By his daring actions in the face of great personal risk, Captain Gudjonsson upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.