The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Paul Michael Julian (MCSN: 2225280), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company B, First Battalion, Third Marines, 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. In the early morning hours of 17 August 1967, during Operation BEACON GATE/COCHISE in Quang Tin Province, Private First Class Julian’s squad was defending a combat outpost which was suddenly assaulted by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. Disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Julian repeatedly exposed himself to the intense enemy fire to throw grenades and deliver accurate suppressive fire at the enemy. When his unit withdrew to a covered position on the reverse slope of the hill, he fearlessly remained in his dangerously exposed position to provide covering fire for the evacuation of the wounded. Then, assured that his wounded companions were safe, Private First Class Julian joined four other Marines in an aggressive counterattack against the enemy. Despite the heavy volume of hostile fire, the Marines overran the enemy positions, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing the North Vietnamese soldiers to abandon their dead comrades and flee in panic and confusion. His resolute determination and sincere concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines inspired all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives of several Marines. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty at great personal risk, Private First Class Julian upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.