The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Richard A. Morris (MCSN: 2172310), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company D, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 February 1968, Corporal Morris’ platoon was assaulting a well entrenched North Vietnamese Army force that was occupying a section of the wall surrounding the Citadel in the city of Hue. As the Marines maneuvered forward, they suddenly came under a heavy volume of small arms, automatic weapons and anti-tank rocket fire and sustained several casualties, including the platoon commander. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Morris unhesitatingly assumed command and moved forward through the hostile fire to reorganize his platoon and direct the Marines’ fire upon the enemy positions. Disregarding his own safety, he fearlessly moved about the fire-swept terrain, skillfully maneuvering his men toward the enemy emplacements. Although painfully wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy grenade, he steadfastly ignored his injuries and boldly led a determined assault into the face of the intense fire, overrunning the enemy positions. Largely due to his aggressive fighting spirit and resolute determination, he was instrumental in his unit accounting for four enemy soldiers killed, one captured and the seizure of two machine guns. By his courage, bold initiative and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Morris 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.