The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class [then Hospitalman] Joe F. Southern (NSN: 7704268), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 26 August 1966, in connection with military operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces at Cam Lo, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a Corpsman with Company A, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division. When his company was attacked by a numerically superior force of Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Regulars and sustained several casualties, Petty Officer Southern responded immediately, moved to the wounded Marines, and began administering medical aid. Although seriously wounded in the face by enemy fire while tending the needs of the wounded, he heroically continued to expose himself to heavy fire and render assistance to his comrades until all casualties were cared for and prepared for removal to safe areas. By his initiative, courageous actions, and inspiring devotion to duty, Petty Officer Southern upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.