The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Carl Ray Dagger (MCSN: 2304358), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Automatic Rifleman with Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 17 May 1968, Corporal Dagger’s platoon was directed to assault a large North Vietnamese Army force near Khe Sanh Combat Base. As the platoon advanced toward the enemy fortifications, it became pinned down by intense small arms and automatic weapons fire, which inflicted numerous casualties. Realizing that several of his wounded comrades needed immediate medical attention, Corporal Dagger unhesitatingly moved across the fire-swept terrain to a casualty lying near a hostile emplacement. With complete disregard for his own safety, he carried the wounded Marine to a position of relative safety and resolutely returned to his unit to assist with the evacuation of other casualties. Alertly observing an injured comrade lying in a dangerously exposed position, Corporal Dagger was fearlessly moving forward when he was mortally wounded. His bold initiative and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the life of a fellow Marine. By his courage, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Dagger upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.