The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert James Aaron (MCSN: 0-93840), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam, on 24 March 1967. During a search and clear operation in Phu An village in Quang Tri Province, First Lieutenant Aaron’s company was approaching the village when it came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire from an entrenched North Vietnamese Army force. Reacting instantly, First Lieutenant Aaron aggressively led his platoon in an attack on the enemy under an increasing volume of enemy small arms fire and grenades. Demonstrating exceptional tactical skill and bold initiative, he daringly led an element of his platoon to the point of heaviest fighting in an attempt to overrun the enemy force. Because of the heavy machine gun fire, the Marines sustained several casualties which temporarily halted their advance. With complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to vicious enemy fire to rally and encourage his men in the assault. Although he was wounded in the right arm, First Lieutenant Aaron courageously continued to advance and was wounded a second time by fragments from an exploding hand grenade. Undaunted by his painful wounds, he gallantly led his men until the enemy was defeated. Displaying a sincere concern for the welfare of his men and selfless disregard for his own comfort, he refused medical attention until he was assured that all of the casualties had been treated and evacuated. His daring and heroic actions throughout the engagement were instrumental in repulsing the enemy attack and undoubtedly prevented further casualties to his unit. By his inspiring leadership, exceptional military skill and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, First Lieutenant Aaron upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.