The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Samuel James Hannah (MCSN: 0-101288), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 7 June 1968, Second Lieutenant Hannah’s platoon was the lead element for the company during a search and destroy operation southwest of DaNang. As the Marines approached a village near Phu Lac, they suddenly came under a heavy volume of fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force. Reacting instantly, Second Lieutenant Hannah boldly moved about the fire-swept terrain, deploying his men and directing their fire at the enemy. Despite having his pistol and rifle damaged by small arms fire, he resolutely continued his heroic actions until he was mortally wounded. His bold initiative and superb leadership inspired all who served with him and were instrumental in the subsequent defeat of the hostile force, resulting if fifty-seven North Vietnamese soldiers killed. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Hannah upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.