The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain Stone W. Quillian (MCSN: 0-31762), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 June 1951. Assigned the mission of seizing and occupying an advanced patrol base approximately 1,500 yards forward of friendly lines and in close proximity to a known hostile strongpoint located on commanding ground and dominating the entire area, Captain Quillian bravely led his men to the objective under cover of darkness and, upon arriving at the first light of dawn, came under intense enemy fire. Faced with the immediate problem of digging in to minimize casualties and of locating the most effective defensible terrain and the best positions for machine guns and mortars, he coolly walked over the entire area, issuing orders to his men who were forced to work in the open under intense mortar and artillery barrages, offering words of encouragement, carefully inspecting his lines and supervising evacuation of the wounded. Continuing his valiant efforts throughout the day, he assured himself that the sector was completely organized for defense and that all his men were in covered positions before seeking protection for himself. By his calm and inspiring leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and courageous determination in the face of heavy odds, Captain Quillian contributed immeasurably to the success achieved by his company, and his heroic devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.