The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Stanley F. Poniktera, Jr. (MCSN: 2374602), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company F, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 28 May 1968, Lance Corporal Poniktera was in charge of a four-man listening post near the Company F defensive position southeast of Khe Sanh. Alertly observing enemy movement in the vicinity of his position, he quickly employed his radio to inform the platoon commander of the situation. When the perimeter suddenly came under heavy attack by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force, Lance Corporal Poniktera maneuvered his men to an advantageous position from which he adjusted mortar fire on the attacking enemy. Undaunted by the intense fire, he skillfully directed the deliver of accurate fire on the hostile force until he was unable to maintain radio communication with his company. Completely disregarding his own safety, he boldly commended firing his weapon at North Vietnamese soldiers who were moving near his position and was seriously injured. Subsequently regaining communications, he continued to provide vital information which enabled his company to utilize supporting arms to inflict numerous casualties on the hostile unit. Although the enemy was now aware of his location he fearlessly continued directing intense fire on the attacking force until he was mortally wounded. His heroic and timely actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of the unit’s mission. By his courage, bold initiative and steadfast devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Poniktera upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.