The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (ChC) Richard Michael Lyons, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Battalion Chaplain, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 31 January 1968 during Operation HUE CITY, Lieutenant Lyons accompanies the Battalion Command Group as it deployed toward the Citadel in the city. As the battalion assaulted a numerically superior hostile force, it came under extremely heavy enemy recoilless rifle, mortar, grenade, rocket, small arms and automatic weapons fire and sustained numerous casualties. Undaunted by the hostile rounds impacting around him, Lieutenant Lyons completely disregarded his own safety as he unhesitatingly left his covered position to move to the wounded Marines. Displaying exceptional courage and resolute determination, he moved among the casualties to administer last rites and provide first aid and comfort, despite the continuing enemy fire. Wounded in the leg and hand by fragments of an exploding mortar round, Lieutenant Lyons refused medical treatment and evacuation for himself in order to remain with the other casualties and assist in their evacuation. Only after they had been extracted from the fire-swept zone did he allow himself to be medically evacuated. Due largely to his bold initiative and resolute determination, he undoubtedly was instrumental in saving many Marines from further pain and injury or possible death and brought spiritual strength and comfort to all with whom he came in contact. By his superior professionalism, steadfast courage and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lieutenant Lyons inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.