The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal William A. Grist (MCSN: 2337813), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator with Company F, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 28 May 1968, while occupying a defensive position southeast of Khe Sanh, Company F came under heavy attack by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. During the ensuing fire fight, several Marines were seriously wounded, including Corporal Grist’s squad leader. Reacting instantly, Corporal Grist took charge of the unit and directed the deliver of a heavy volume of fire against the enemy. Disregarding his own safety, he skillfully adjusted mortar fire on the hostile force until his radio was damaged by the intense fire. When the enemy soldiers penetrated the company’s defensive perimeter near his squad’s position, he boldly directed his men to secondary positions. Realizing that his squad leader could not be moved, he fearlessly remained in the hazardous area in order to protect his wounded comrade. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting around him, he boldly exposed himself to the enemy fire and directed accurate fire upon the attacking North Vietnamese soldiers until he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines were an inspiration to all who served with him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Grist upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.