The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal [then Private First Class] Alfred Robert Varelas (MCSN: 2186264), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Radio Operator with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 June 1967. While elements of Company D were conducting a patrol northwest of Hill 861, near Khe Sanh, Lance Corporal Varelas’ squad was assigned the mission of flank security. As the Marines were moving up a steep hill through tall grass, the man walking ahead of Lance Corporal Varelas inadvertently kicked a hand grenade which was lying on the ground and dislodged the safety pin, thereby arming the grenade. Due to the rugged terrain, the squad was unable to disperse. Realizing the imminent danger to his comrades, Lance Corporal Varelas immediately shouted a warning and unhesitatingly covered the deadly grenade with his helmet and body to shield his fellow Marines from the impending explosion. Displaying exceptional fortitude, he disregarded his own safety and continued to use his body to cover the grenade in an effort to absorb the impact of the expected explosion, however, after several minutes, it was evident that the grenade had malfunctioned. By his outstanding courage, calm presence of mind, and selfless efforts in behalf of others, he served to inspire all who observed him and to uphold the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.