The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Anthony J. Battista (MCSN: 0-91530), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 April 1966. On that date, the Company was in a night defense position in Quang Nam Province, and Lieutenant Battista, Commander of the Second Platoon, was engaged in the defense of the company perimeter. Without warning the platoon came under heavy small-arms fire, automatic weapons and accurate mortar fire from a superior Viet Cong force of battalion size. Without hesitation, Lieutenant Battista moved immediately to points of crisis where he was most needed to render medical aid and encouragement, and to personally supervise the defense of his command. With full knowledge of the hazards involved, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while directing the operations of his forces. Although seriously wounded, he declined medical aid and continued moving from positions to position inspiring his men with his dynamic leadership and courageous fighting spirit until he fell, mortally wounded by fire from an automatic weapon. By his marked courage, brilliant leadership and unswerving devotion to duty, Lieutenant Battista served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.