The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Donald Alan Kirkham (NSN: B-506708), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company G, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 31 January 1968. During Operation HUE CITY, a platoon from Company G was advancing along a street toward the Citadel in the city of Hue when the platoon came under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from a fortified hostile emplacement. In the initial burst of fire, six Marines were wounded and were unable to move from their positions. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Petty Officer Kirkham unhesitatingly left his protective cover and braved the heavy volume of enemy fire to move to the side of the fallen men. Undaunted by the hostile rounds impacting all around him, he displayed exceptional courage, presence of mind, and selfless concern for the welfare of the wounded as he placed himself between his injured comrades and the continuing enemy fire. Although wounded himself by enemy fire, Petty Officer Kirkham refused medical treatment and evacuation for himself and proceeded to move to each of the casualties, skillfully dressing their wounds and supervising their evacuation from the hazardous area. After crossing the fire-swept street to administer to the last of the casualties, Petty Officer Kirkham was hit by a burst of enemy fire, and fell, mortally wounded. Due largely to his prompt and daring actions, several Marines were saved from further injury and possible death. Petty Officer Kirkham’s superior professional skill, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.