The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Gunnery Sergeant Floyd M. Keefe (MCSN: 1332594), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of Food Service, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 March 1969, the Battalion Command Post at Phu Lac came under an intense ground attack from approximately two hundred enemy sappers who were supported by rockets and mortars. Reacting instantly, Gunnery Sergeant Keefe was rushing to his defensive position adjacent to the mess hall when he observed six hostile soldiers who had penetrated the defensive wire and were moving toward the command bunker. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, he fearlessly moved between the enemy and the command bunker and began delivering rifle fire upon the soldiers who were firing at him. After killing one hostile soldier and forcing the others to take cover, Gunnery Sergeant Keefe continued firing his rifle as he attempted to reach a fighting trench, but was knocked to the ground by the explosion of an enemy grenade. While steadfastly endeavoring to recover from the blast and continue his aggressive efforts, he was mortally wounded by hostile automatic weapons fire. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in preventing the destruction of the Battalion Command Bunker. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Gunnery Sergeant Keefe upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.