The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Christopher M. LeBaugh (MCSN: 2247724), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 27 June 1967. While acting as point element of a patrol conducting a night search and clear operation, Lance Corporal LeBaugh’s fire team was suddenly halted when it inadvertently detonated an enemy anti-personnel mine. The resulting explosion seriously wounded him, causing the loss of one leg and extensive injury to the other. Immediately, the patrol came under intense enemy small arms fire. Though in great pain and bleeding profusely despite his attempts at self treatment, he calmly and courageously directed the deployment and the fire of his men, drawing upon invaluable experience gained through participation in more than 200 patrols. By moving the patrol to covered, secure positions and directing his men to observe strict fire discipline, he succeeded in preventing the Viet Cong from overrunning his position. Continually encouraging his men, he inspired them to successfully maintain their defensive perimeter until reinforcements arrived. As a result of his outstanding leadership, initiative and selfless courage, he was undoubtedly instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow Marines and the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his heroic action, aggressive fighting spirit and resolute devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lance Corporal LeBaugh inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.