The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Gearie E. Lawrence (MCSN: 2460838), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 April 1969, Private First Class Lawrence was acting as Point Man of a team which was providing security during mine clearing operations in Quang Nam Province. Moving through thick underbrush and foliage, he found it necessary to clear his way as he advanced, and in doing so accidentally tripped a wire attached to an enemy grenade rigged as a booby trop. Reacting instantly, he shouted a warning to his companions and then immediately picked up the live grenade and threw it away from their position where it exploded harmlessly. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and saved his companions from serious injury or possible death. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Lawrence upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.