The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Samuel Laurence King (MCSN: 2184066), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Company Radio Operator with Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 February 1967, during Operation STONE, Lance Corporal King demonstrated exceptional courage and devotion to duty while traversing a distance in excess of 5,000 meters through heavily mined and booby trapped terrain to cut off a main force enemy battalion’s last route of escape. While advancing against the enemy, he was critically wounded by an enemy mine. Although in severe pain, Lance Corporal King steadfastly refused to relinquish his duties as Company Radio Operator and continued to perform in a calm and efficient manner. Demonstrating exceptional courage and unfaltering dedication to duty, he continued to carry out his assigned duties and refused medical aid until he had effected the final communication of his Company Commander. His courageous actions in the face of great personal risk served as an inspiration to all who observed him and was instrumental in the accomplishment of his Company’s mission. By his extraordinary courage and outstanding professional skill, Lance Corporal King upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.