The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Richard Lane Cotter (MCSN: 0-105059), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Headquarters and Service Company, First Amphibian Tractor Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 February 1969, upon learning that a Marine patrol was engaged with a large enemy force near Dai Do in Quang Tri Province and had sustained several casualties, Second Lieutenant Cotter quickly organized a reacting force and set out aboard a tracked vehicle to aid the beleaguered Marines. When his vehicle became immobilized in the difficult terrain, he debarked and, proceeding on foot, skillfully maneuvered his men to the designated area. Quickly assessing the situation, Second Lieutenant Cotter deployed his unit into defensive positions, requested a medical evacuation helicopter, and directed the evacuation of the wounded. Then, moving from one position to another, he rallied his Marines and launched an aggressive assault against the enemy. During the ensuing fire fight, he repeatedly disregarded his own safety to pinpoint hostile positions and direct the fire of his men. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting near him and shouting words of encouragement, Second Lieutenant Cotter continued his aggressive attack and was boldly advancing across the fire-swept terrain when he was mortally wounded. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Cotter upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.