The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph M. Conlon, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant Conlon distinguished himself on 23 August 1968 in the attack of Command and Control North Headquarters at Marble Mountain. While on orders at CCN Headquarters, Marble Mountain, the Special Forces Headquarters was attacked by a superior force of enemy soldiers, sappers, and snipers. Without regard for his own safety, Staff Sergeant Conlon displayed remarkable courage by running through the furious firefight to rescue fellow soldiers and deliver highly accurate fire on the enemy. At one point, while assisting a fellow soldier, he unhesitatingly threw himself across the wounded man to protect him from further injury. He continued to move wounded soldiers to medical treatment while engaging the enemy, returning over and over again to assist the wounded and destroy the enemy. Staff Sergeant Conlon continued to exhibit exemplary courage and leadership as he led the evacuation of many fallen comrades. His accurate and withering fire on the foe saved countless more American and allied lives. Staff Sergeant Conlon’s devotion to duty and personal bravery were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.