The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant John C. Kegel (MCSN: 0-104243), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Forward Observer with Company C, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 March 1969, Company C was directed to seize a hill north of the Rockpile in Quang Tri Province. Unhesitatingly moving to an exposed vantage point, First Lieutenant Kegel skillfully adjusted mortar and artillery fire upon a North Vietnamese Army regiment which was firmly entrenched on top of the hill and, while his unit maneuvered into attack positions, was instrumental in the destruction of three hostile bunkers. One bunker, manned by three soldiers utilizing grenades and automatic weapons fire, remained to hinder the friendly forces. Realizing that he was in the most advantageous location to destroy the enemy emplacement, and fully aware of the dangers involved, First Lieutenant Kegel fearlessly picked his way across the fire-swept terrain toward the bunker. Disregarding the enemy rounds directed at him, and armed only with a rifle and two hand grenades, he resolutely continued his determined efforts until he was within three meters of his objective. Hurling the hand grenades through the aperture of the fortification, he killed the three soldiers and destroyed the emplacement. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and enabled his companions to complete the assault. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, First Lieutenant Kegel contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.