The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John L. Mutschler (MCSN: 2484069), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an 81-mm. Mortar Gunner with Headquarters and Service Company, Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Early on the morning of 10 August 1969, during Operation IDAHO CANYON, the Company E defensive perimeter approximately eight miles northwest of Vandegrift Combat Base came under intense mortar, rocket propelled grenade, and small arms fire from an estimated North Vietnamese Army company, followed by a determined ground attack. When his unit’s sector of the perimeter was penetrated during the initial assault and the enemy began to sweep across his platoon’s position in waves, the Marines rapidly maneuvered to alternate defensive positions in order to re-establish their perimeter. This move resulted in several of the Marine casualties remaining in dangerously exposed positions and in the open in the front of the newly established perimeter. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private First Class Mutschler unhesitatingly left the relative safety of his fighting hole within the newly established perimeter and fearlessly dashed across the fire-swept terrain through the enemy ranks firing his rifle, and killed several North Vietnamese soldiers before reaching the side of one of his fallen comrades. Forced to abandon his weapon in order to carry the wounded Marine, he resolutely moved toward the perimeter but was seriously wounded by fragments from an enemy mortar round. Ignoring his own painful injuries, he continued to carry the wounded man across the dangerous area until he reached a covered position. Undaunted by the vicious fire fight around him, he braved the North Vietnamese fire to rescue two additional casualties and was wounded for the second time. While moving across the fire-swept terrain in a fourth attempt to rescue a fallen Marine, he was critically wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy round and rendered incapable of continuing his selfless mission, By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Mutschler inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.