The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Curtis Mitchell (MCSN: 2300587), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with the Second Platoon, Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in the Republic of Vietnam on 4 September 1967. During Operation Swift, Private First Class Mitchell was the point man when an enemy machine gun opened fire killing his squad leader and tow other men from his squad. Sighting the concealed machine gun, he began returning effective fire on the position, pinning the enemy down. He then volunteered to guide an enveloping force which destroyed a bunker and cleared the enemy from the trench. Private First Class Mitchell was mortally wounded when the enemy opened fire from another position. His forcefulness and exceptional competence were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, inspiring leadership and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Private First Class Mitchell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.