The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Mark Warren Judge (MCSN: 2235869), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as a Rifleman with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in connection with operations against enemy forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 September 1967. Private First Class Judge was point man of the lead fire team on a search and destroy mission when the team came under attack from a well entrenched and concealed enemy force of an undetermined number. Wounded several times in the initial burst of enemy fire, Private First Class Judge instinctively returned their fire. During the following heavy exchange of fire he was again hit and, although seriously wounded, realized that the enemy was moving toward him from the flank, attempting to cut his team members off from their platoon. Private First Class Judge directed the other members to move back while he provided covering fire. As a result of his heroic action and fearless devotion to duty he eventually succumbed to his numerous wounds even while still unleashing a deadly hail of fire on the enemy. Through his extraordinary initiative and inspiring valor in the face of almost certain death, he saved his fellow Marines from injury and possible loss of life. Private First Class Judge’s outstanding courage and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.