The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class David A. Hamilton (MCSN: 2326751), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced) in the Republic of Vietnam on 14 October 1967. The battalion to which Company G was attached was protecting a newly constructed bridge approximately 3000 meters south of Con Thien. In the early morning hours, the battalion came under a heavy rocket and mortar bombardment, followed by a human wave attack of North Vietnamese soldiers. The enemy penetrated Company G’s forward position and was charging towards Private First Class Hamilton’s machine gun. The enemy had his position pinpointed and rocked and automatic weapons fire erupted all around him. Firing at point blank range, he continually exposed himself to deliver a heavy and accurate rate of fire on the enemy onslaught. His position received a direct hit from rockets and automatic weapons fire, wounding him and destroying his weapon. Although wounded, he remained determined to allow his fellow Marines further time to prepare for the follow up attack. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he along with his squad leader and assistant machine gunner attacked the oncoming hordes of enemy soldiers in hand-to-hand combat, killing eight North Vietnamese soldiers, before he was mortally wounded by an enemy automatic weapon. By his bold initiative, intrepid fighting spirit and loyal devotion to the fulfillment of a vital task, Private First Class Hamilton reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.