The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Charles James Whyte (MCSN: 2108109), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Guide with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 28 May 1968 during Operation Allen Brook, Sergeant Whyte’s platoon was advancing across an open area toward a tree line near the village of Cu Ban (4), when the Marines came under heavy automatic weapons, small arms and rocket fire, and were pinned down by a well entrenched enemy force. Realizing the seriousness of the situation and the importance of gaining fire superiority, Sergeant Whyte, fearlessly exposed himself to hostile fire as he moved from one squad to another, encouraging the Marines and directing their fire. Assisting one squad leader in quickly organizing the members of his squad in preparation for an assault against enemy positions in a nearby tree line, he subsequently joined the unit as it aggressively engaged the hostile force. During the ensuing battle, he maintained the momentum of the assault by remaining in the forefront of the squad, delivering accurate rifle fire and encouraging the men until he was mortally wounded. His dynamic leadership and determined actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his extraordinary courage, bold initiation and selfless determination to duty, Sergeant Whyte upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Navel Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.