The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Virgil Charles Shelley, Jr. (MCSN: 1225016), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company G, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 July 1952. When his platoon was pinned down by intense hostile machine gun fire during a raid on concealed enemy emplacements well in advance of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Shelley bravely exposed himself to the hostile fire and engaged the enemy with his automatic weapon until friendly machine guns could be brought into position, personally silencing a sniper who was inflicting casualties on his unit. Mortally wounded by hostile machine gun fire while covering his platoon during its movement to fresh positions, Private First Class Shelley, by his outstanding courage, daring initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success achieved by his unit, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.