Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Gunnery Sergeant

    Action Date:

    March 13, 1967

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant Merle W. Reese (MCSN: 1131770), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as 3d Counter-intelligence Team representative in the Hieu Nhon District Intelligence Operation Center during the defense of the Hieu Nhon Sub-sector and District Headquarters on 13 March 1967. On this date, confronted by a vastly superior enemy force, Gunnery Sergeant Reese distinguished himself by aggressively joining in the defense of the Sub-sector Advisor’s positions. Continuously exposing himself to intense automatic weapons fire, in complete disregard of his own safety, he delivered a high volume of effective firepower into the assaulting enemy killing and wounding many. When his team leader was mortally wounded and he himself severely wounded, Gunnery Sergeant Reese rallied the other team members, effected re-supply of ammunition and directed the continued active defense of his positions until the enemy broke contact and withdrew. By his intrepidity through personal example and deep concern for his comrades, outstanding leadership, judgment, and inspiring devotion to duty and gallant conduct under fire, Gunnery Sergeant Reese upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.