The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Homer K. Jenkins (MCSN: 0-85550), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company H, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy during Operation STARLITE near Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam, on 18 August 1965. As the Commanding Officer of Company H, First Lieutenant Jenkins exhibited uncommon courage and aplomb while leading his company and attached tanks and Ontos in attacking the determined insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces who were entrenched in heavily fortified positions. Repeatedly out of radio contact with the infantry and attached tracked vehicle units, he fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire time after time as he personally moved throughout his company directing, caring for, and encouraging his men. On several occasions he was knocked to the ground by the concussion of exploding mortar rounds, but he dauntlessly continued to influence his company with a clam courage that was inspirational to those who served with him. The superb combat performance of his company, inspired by Lieutenant Jenkins’ leadership, resulted in the deaths of nearly 200 enemy troops. By his daring and selfless actions and loyal devotion to duty in the face of personal risk, First Lieutenant Jenkins upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.