The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John Bruce Doherty (MCSN: 0-91916), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 18 July 1966, during Operation HASTINGS, Second Lieutenant Doherty displayed uncommon valor and daring initiative in assisting elements of another Marine company who had been cut off from the main unit and sustained heavy casualties in an attack by North Vietnamese forces. The Company to which Second Lieutenant Doherty was assigned as a Forward Observer was sent to reinforce the besieged Marines, help fight off the attacking enemy and facilitate the evacuation of the Marine casualties. Arriving at the scene of the violent action, Second Lieutenant Doherty immediately ascertained that his services as a Forward Observer were not required at the moment and quickly began to assist in the deployment of the reinforcing units. In the midst of the vicious action, he courageously exposed himself to the withering enemy rifle and machine gun fire to direct the men’s fire and offer advice and encouragement. His inspiring leadership and personal example of courage helped greatly to rally the Marines, who soon gained fire superiority and halted the advancing enemy. Without regard for his own safety, Second Lieutenant Doherty fearlessly moved to the area of the casualties and braved the continuing hostile fire to help organize and supervise their evacuation to a more protected area. Demonstrating deep concern for the stricken men, he maintained his hazardous position until the last of the wounded had been removed from the bitterly contested area. By his exceptional fortitude in the face of grave danger, bold determination and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Second Lieutenant Doherty upheld the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.