The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant James E. Dougherty (MCSN: 2096769), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 7 February 1968, Company B was conducting a search and destroy operation north of Phu Loc. As the lead elements approached the Troi River Bridge, the Marines suddenly came under intense automatic weapons and anti-tank rocket fire from a well concealed enemy force. In the initial moments of the fire fight, several Marines were wounded and the platoon was temporarily pinned down. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Dougherty unhesitatingly moved forward to an advantageous position and began directing his men’s fire upon the hostile forces. Unable to pinpoint the exact location of the enemy weapons, he fearlessly maneuvered to a dangerously exposed area and attracted the hostile soldier’s attention and fire which enabled his men to deliver accurate suppressive fire upon the enemy positions. Disregarding his own safety, he began deploying a 3.5 inch rocket team and was wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy rocket round. Ignoring his painful injuries, he boldly led a determined assault upon the hostile emplacements and overran the enemy position. Immediately establishing a defensive perimeter, he continued to move about the hazardous area, directing his men’s fire and supervising the evacuation of casualties. His bold initiative and resolute determination were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Sergeant Dougherty upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.