The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Leonard Clifford Kasson (MCSN: 2118060), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company K, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 28 September 1966. During Operation PRAIRIE in Quang Tri Province, Corporal Kasson led his unit in an assault on well fortified North Vietnamese bunkers located on Hill 400. Realizing the importance of destroying the enemy positions, and with complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Kasson maneuvered with two companions, to within fifteen meters of the mutually supporting fortifications. Unhesitatingly and with uncommon courage, he ignored intense enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire to throw grenades into the North Vietnamese bunkers. Without assistance, Corporal Kasson destroyed one of the fortifications and killed two of the enemy. Seizing the position, he quickly set up his squad’s machine gun and provided covering fire for reinforcements advancing from the foot of the hill. The determined enemy then launched a vicious counterattack, during which Corporal Kasson was wounded by fragments from an enemy grenade. Despite his painful arm wound, he refused treatment and continued to skillfully direct and encourage his squad. Under his brave and inspiring leadership during the ensuing two hour fire fight, his squad was instrumental in repelling the enemy. By his fearless determination, extraordinary courage and loyal devotion to duty, Corporal Kasson upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.