The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Richard Lewis Pettit (MCSN: 1199603), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Rifleman of Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 September 1952. Voluntarily assuming the point position during a night raid on a well-entrenched enemy hill position, Corporal Pettit relentlessly charged the hill and, as the unit reached the objective, delivered accurate fire on the enemy. Although twice wounded during the encounter by enemy small arms fire, he continued in the assault, firing his carbine and throwing hand grenades. After receiving a third wound, he was unable to utilize a portable satchel charge and, although suffering intense pain from his wounds, crawled to a nearby Marine to instruct him how and where to use the explosive. While attempting to crawl to an awaiting stretcher party, he was wounded a fourth time and collapsed. By his outstanding courage, indomitable fighting spirit and daring initiative in the face of extreme peril, Corporal Pettit served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.