Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    3d Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

    Action Date:

    December 28, 1967

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Henry L. Morgan (MCSN: 2034970), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 December 1967, during Operation AUBURN, Sergeant Morgan was serving as a Platoon Commander, a billet normally assigned to a commissioned officer, when Company E came under intense small arms, automatic weapons, and grenade launcher fire from a well-entrenched force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars in Quang Nam Province. In the initial moments of the fire fight, one Marine platoon became pinned down by the heavy volume of enemy fire and sustained several casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Morgan led his platoon to the assistance of the beleaguered unit and skillfully deployed his men into positions from which they delivered effective suppressive fire against the hostile force. When the volume of enemy fire decreased, he organized a rescue team to evacuate casualties who were lying in positions dangerously exposed to hostile fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he unhesitatingly moved across thirty meters of hazardous terrain on five occasions, ignoring enemy sniper fire, to assist wounded comrades to positions of relative safety. When the advance was temporarily halted by accurate automatic weapons fire, he seized an M-79 grenade launcher and, accompanied by several of his men, assaulted a machine gun emplacement. Although wounded, he ignored his painful injury and delivered effective grenade launcher fire which destroyed the enemy position. Steadfastly refusing medical aid, he consolidated his platoon’s position and established a defensive perimeter. Subsequently, while en route to his company command post to inform his commander of the situation, he was mortally wounded by a burst of enemy automatic weapons fire. His resolute determination and calm presence of mind in the face of extreme personal danger were an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly saved the lives of several fellow Marines. By his courage, superb leadership, and unfaltering devotion to duty, Sergeant Morgan contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.