The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Lavoy D. McVey (MCSN: 0-91424), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company C, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the evening of 2 March 1970, Captain McVey learned that a reconnaissance team from his company had become heavily engaged in combat with a large enemy force, and that the officer leading the patrol was seriously wounded. Greatly concerned for the welfare of the Marine, Captain McVey immediately mustered another reconnaissance team and launched aboard a transport helicopter to effect the expeditious evacuation of the casualty. Arriving over the designated location, he observed hostile fire in areas surrounding the proposed landing site. In the face of that danger, he prepared to descend to the ground via a jungle penetrator while his reconnaissance team followed to support him by means of other lines. As he was being lowered toward the heavy canopy, the cable broke and he fell to the ground. By his courage, selfless concern for his fellowman, and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Captain upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.