The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Matthew Coleman (MCSN: 2258782), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company L, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. While acting as point man for the lead squad of his platoon, in the vicinity of Ngan Cau (2), Quang Nam Province, Private First Class Coleman was advancing cautiously to the first native hut in the hamlet to conduct a search when a grenade was thrown at him by one of three Viet Cong occupying the dwelling. Reacting instantly, he picked up the grenade and threw it back into the hut. The resulting explosion knocked him backwards, wounding him. Undaunted, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he assaulted the enemy position, directing an accurate and intense volume of small arms fire on the hut, which killed one Viet Cong and wounded two others. Though painfully wounded, Private First Class Coleman aggressively advanced into the hut, captured the two Viet Cong and searched diligently for weapons and documents. It was only at the insistence of his platoon leader and his squad leader that he was evacuated for treatment of his wounds. His heroic and aggressive actions undoubtedly prevented casualties to his comrades and inspired all who observed him. The two wounded Viet Cong subsequently provided his Battalion with valuable intelligence information. My his bold initiative, professional skill, uncommon courage and loyal devotion to duty, Private First Class Coleman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.