The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant George M. Crouch (MCSN: 1938468), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Patrol Leader with Company A, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 15 April 1969, Staff Sergeant Crouch and his team were occupying a defensive position while conducting reconnaissance operations southwest of An Hoa in Quang Nam Province. Suddenly, the Marines were attacked by a platoon of North Vietnamese Army soldiers utilizing small arms, automatic weapons, and hand grenades. Although painfully wounded by fragments from an exploding grenade, Staff sergeant Crouch fearlessly maneuvered throughout the fire-swept Marine position to direct the fire of his men and ensure that casualties received medical aid. Obtaining a radio, he requested fixed wing support and subsequently directed the aircraft’s fire to within fifteen meters of his position. Completely disregarding his own safety, he continued his determined efforts and after requesting medical evacuation, remained in exposed positions until he ensured that casualties were medically evacuated from the hazardous area. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty at great personal risk, Staff Sergeant Crouch inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.