The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Gary G. Gray (MCSN: 2490289), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 26 August 1969, while Company E was conducting a search and destroy operation in Hiep Duc Valley in Quang Nam Province, the Marines came under intense sniper fire from hostile soldiers occupying well-concealed emplacements and sustained several casualties. Observing that the wounded men were pinned down in an exposed area, Private First Class Gray, with complete disregard for his own safety, fought his way across the fire-swept terrain and fearlessly carried one of his injured companions to a covered location where he could receive medical attention and await evacuation in relative safety. Again braving the hostile rounds impacting around him, Private First Class Gray reentered the dangerous area and, detecting one of the enemy snipers’ positions, called out the location to his comrades so they could concentrate fire upon it. As he continued to move through the fire toward a wounded Marine’s side, Private First Class Gray was mortally wounded by an enemy sniper. His heroic actions and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and saved the life of a fellow Marine. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Gray upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.