The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Gene Franklin Davis (MCSN: 1460528), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 24 July 1966. During Operation HASTINGS, Staff Sergeant Davis’ platoon came under intense automatic weapons fire from a well concealed force of North Vietnamese Regulars estimated at company size. Despite the numerically superior enemy force and a distinct terrain disadvantage, Staff Sergeant Davis exhibited bold initiative and professional tactical skill as he employed his forces and repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order that he could personally direct accurate fire on the enemy positions. Although his platoon had sustained heavy casualties, he continued the attack and gained the initiative. Staff Sergeant Davis’ personal bravery and calm composure in the heat of battle had a pronounced effect on the fighting spirit of his men. Under his strong leadership, the platoon never lost its momentum and defeated the numerically superior enemy, inflicting heavy casualties and routing them from their positions. His heroic actions were directly responsible for preventing further Marine casualties. Upon arrival of a relief platoon, he immediately formed his men in position to repel any counterattack and began skillfully directing the evacuation of the wounded. By his courage, exemplary leadership and inspiring devotion to duty throughout, Staff Sergeant Davis upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.