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 Colonel Leslie Eugene Brown (MCSN: 0-19930), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces while serving as Commanding Officer, Marine Aircraft Group TWELVE (MAG-12), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 28 October 1965, Viet Cong suicide squads suddenly and violently attacked and infiltrated Chu Lai Airfield in a determined effort to destroy aircraft. Proceeding immediately to the center of action on the flight line, Colonel Brown, defying the hazards involved, directed the entire Group counteraction. With fires raging from bombed aircraft, and with guerrilla infiltrators dispersed throughout the area, he fearlessly moved from position to position, directing explosive ordnance disposal teams, fire fighting efforts, searches for bombs, and other defensive operations. Ignoring the low order detonation of two 250 pound bombs, and the danger from further explosions or the possible conflagration of the jet fuel which flooded the area, Colonel Brown fearlessly moved through the area supervising and personally assisting his Marines in their hazardous tasks. Displaying remarkable presence of mind and attention to detail, he was always the master of the situation, making his presence strongly felt everywhere and thereby establishing order from the potential chaos. By his selfless courage, inspiring leadership and loyal devotion to duty throughout, Colonel Brown upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.