The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Eugene Whitbeck (NSN: 517024), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 9 August 1968, during Operation MAMELUKE THRUST, Company M was attacking a large North Vietnamese Army force occupying a defensive position on Hill 310 in Quang Nam Province. Alertly observing an injured Marine lying in an area dangerously exposed to intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, Hospitalman Whitbeck fearlessly left his position of relative safety and moved across the fire-swept terrain to the casualty’s side. Ignoring the hostile rounds impacting near him, he skillfully treated his injured comrade and began evacuating him to a covered position when the enemy suddenly commenced throwing numerous hand grenades at them. With complete disregard for his own safety, Hospitalman Whitbeck covered the casualty with his own body, shielding him from further injury. As several North Vietnamese soldiers maneuvered toward the severely wounded Marine, Hospitalman Whitbeck seized his wounded comrade’s hand grenades and accurately threw them at the enemy, disrupting their advance. Continuing his determined efforts, he then moved his patient to a position of relative safety. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrade inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the life of the injured Marine. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Hospitalman Whitbeck upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.