Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Richard Forsythe Daley (MCSN: 0-56483), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Early on the morning of 19 March 1969, the First Battalion’s Command Post in Quang Nam Province came under intense hostile rocket and mortar fire supporting a determined attack by a large enemy sapper force, which attempted to breach the defensive perimeter in several locations. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Lieutenant Colonel Daley completely disregarded his own safety as he boldly moved across the fire-swept terrain to a vantage point from which he could more accurately analyze the tactical situation. Aware that several sappers had penetrated the perimeter, he swiftly organized a reaction force and ignored the enemy rounds impacting near him as he fearlessly led his men in a fierce counterattack. Employing direct artillery fire and massive concentrations of mortar fire to within 100 meters of his position, he continued to brave the heavy volume of hostile fire as he skillfully deployed his men in halting the enemy’s advance. When the hostile force attempted to withdraw after approximately four hours of intense fighting, Lieutenant Colonel Daley launched a coordinated and aggressive assault that completely routed the enemy and forced them to flee in panic and confusion. Quickly maneuvering elements of his battalion into ambush positions, he succeeded in inflicting further casualties upon the fleeing hostile soldiers. His superb leadership and heroic actions were instrumental in his unit accounting for seventy-two enemy soldiers confirmed killed, large quantities of hostile weapons and equipment captured, and the total defeat of the enemy force with a minimum of casualties among his Marines. By his courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Daley inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    July 24 – 27, 1953

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Richard Forsythe Daley (MCSN: 0-56483), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in Korea, from 24 to 27 July 1953. Serving as a Platoon Commander, Second Lieutenant Daley displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy launched vicious attacks on friendly positions, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety by moving from one position to another in order to check the condition and welfare of his men. Despite devastating hostile mortar and artillery barrages, he gallantly continued to shout words of encouragement to his men and aid in the evacuation of the wounded. One night, he courageously led his men in a daring counterattack on a portion of friendly lines held by hostile troops. Exhibiting remarkable resourcefulness during the fierce encounter, he personally killed ten enemy and inflicted considerable damage on hostile equipment. When wire communications were severed by murderous enemy mortar and artillery barrages, he skillfully directed friendly mortar fire upon enemy installations and troop concentrations by using radio communications. The extremely well directed fire caused severe casualties and damage to hostile positions. His intrepid efforts aided immeasurably in repelling the large-scale enemy attacks against the position. Second Lieutenant Daley’s indomitable spirit combined with his gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.