The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Seaman Marc Steven James (NSN: 7884795), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 27 September 1967, while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against communist insurgent (Viet Cong) forces, during search and destroy operations in Kien Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam. With Seaman James embarked as gunner on the port thirty-caliber machine gun, Armored Troop Carrier 91-3 was operating as the lead boat of a formation of riverine assault craft in support of elements of the Second Brigade, Ninth Army Infantry Division. Contact with the Viet Cong was initiated by a sudden and heavy recoilless rifle attack directed at ATC 91-3 at point-blank range, from fortified bunkers along the river bank. One of the first enemy rounds fired pierced the bow ramp of ATC 91-3, inflicting shrapnel injuries to Seaman James, and knocking him to the deck. Despite his serious wounds, he re-manned his weapon and proceeded to expose himself to further enemy fire in order to better direct his return fire. He continued to fire on the enemy fortification at a range of only thirty to forty meters, until a second rifle round exploded directly on his mount, instantly causing his death. Seaman James’ exceptional courage under fire and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.