The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Richard H. Gettys (MCSN: 668488), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Heavy Machine Gunner in Weapons Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 November 1950. Refusing to be evacuated despite painful chest wounds sustained in the initial stage of a strong hostile attack against his sector, Private First Class Gettys boldly continued to deliver accurate and effective fire against the enemy until he lost consciousness. His skill, courage and indomitable fighting spirit were contributing factors in the successful repulse of the hostile attack and in preventing the enemy from overrunning his machine gun position, thereby reflecting great credit upon Private First Class Gettys and the United States Naval Service.