The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class William Locke Strunk (NSN: 9150696), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company H, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 5 February 1967. During a search and clear mission in the vicinity of Quan Dai Loc, Petty Officer Strunk’s squad sustained several casualties and was temporarily pinned down in an open area by intense automatic-rifle fire and M-79 grenades from a well-concealed Viet Cong ambush force. Although painfully wounded in the leg, Petty Officer Strunk disregarded his own safety to move about the area and administer first-aid treatment to his wounded companions. Despite the intense enemy fire, he courageously continued to administer life-saving medical aid until the wounded had been moved to a position of relative safety. Demonstrating steadfast courage and resolute determination, he refused medical aid for himself until all the other men had received the necessary medical treatment. Petty Officer Strunk further requested that he be allowed to remain in the battle area to treat any additional casualties. His actions inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly saved numerous lives. By his exceptional professional skill, fearless initiative and loyal devotion to duty at great personal risk, Petty Officer Strunk upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.