The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William Charles Millsap (MCSN: 2135609), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 February 1966, Private First Class Millsap’s Company was conducting a search and destroy operation in Thua Thien Province when it was suddenly subjected to heavy machine gun and mortar fire from an entrenched, battalion sized Viet Cong force. Completely disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Millsap repeatedly exposed himself to the devastating hostile fire to throw grenades accurately and effectively into the enemy positions. When the Viet Cong attempted to launch a counterattack, he again placed himself in a hazardous position to bring accurate rifle fire on the advancing enemy, and allowed the Marines to launch a frontal assault. Aggressively charging across twenty-five yards of open, fire-swept terrain, Private First Class Millsap exhibited uncommon valor, constantly shouting words of encouragement to his comrades which inspired others to follow him in the attack. His stalwart effort created havoc among the enemy force, and contributed in large measure to the overall success of the engagement, in which at least one hundred and twenty-two Viet Cong were killed. By his extraordinary fortitude in the face of extreme danger, brilliant initiative and selfless dedication to duty, Private First Class Millsap upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.