The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph Lopez (MCSN: 2344087), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 13 February 1968 during Operation HUE CITY, Private First Class Lopez unhesitatingly assumed command when his squad leader was wounded and, throughout the remainder of the operation, ably led the members of the squad against the enemy. Although he sustained painful fragmentation wounds to his face on 16 February, he refused medical assistance and continued to lead his squad in accomplishing their assigned mission, accepting medical attention only after the objective was seized. On 17 February, when his unit encountered a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force and was temporarily pinned down, Private First Class Lopez fearlessly exposed himself to hostile fire to deliver accurate rifle fire against the enemy, enabling his men to maneuver to more advantageous positions. Wounded in the leg by fragments of an exploding B-40 rocket round on 20 February, he continued to lead his men against the hostile force until he was directed to seek medical assistance. Despite his serious wound, Private First Class Lopez returned to his unit the following day and resolutely remained with his squad until the operation was completed. By his resolute courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Lopez inspired all those who observed him, contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s missions and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.