The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class David A. Blough (MCSN: 2378332), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 December 1967, during Operation AUBURN, Company E came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and grenade launcher fire from a well-entrenched force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars in Quang Nam Province. In the initial moments of the fire fight, the Marines sustained several casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private First Class Blough fearlessly exposed himself to the heavy volume of fire to aid a wounded comrade. Unhesitatingly crawling across thirty meters of fire-swept terrain, he reached the side of the injured man and began to assist him to a position of relative safety. Although enemy soldiers were located within a few meters of his position and advancing toward him, he steadfastly refused to abandon his comrade and continued his determined efforts to assist the casualty to the Marine defensive perimeter until mortally wounded by fragments from an exploding enemy hand grenade. His resolute determination and sincere concern for his fellow Marine were an inspiration to all who observed him. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Private First Class Blough upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.