The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Stephen George Biddulph (MCSN: 0-115801), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Sub Unit ONE, First Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, in the Republic of Vietnam, from 11 July to 13 July 1972. As Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer in Charge of the Shore Fire Control Party operating in support of the First Vietnamese Marine Corps Battalion, First Lieutenant Biddulph accompanied the battalion as it commenced a major helicopter assault into a heavily-defended sector of Quang Tri Province. When the helicopter on which he was a passenger was struck by enemy fire and crash landed five hundred yards from the objective area, he was wounded in both legs by hostile automatic rifle fire, but found his way across an open rice paddy to the shelter of the rice paddy dike where he remained until the area was secured. Then refusing medical evacuation, First Lieutenant Biddulph moved to the newly established command post and assisted the battalion commander in formulating plans for the effective employment of naval gunfire in pursuing the attack. During a series of fierce battles, he completely disregarded his own safety and physical discomfort as he moved from one position to another to observe the enemy and direct naval gunfire on hostile positions. Although exposed to enemy direct and indirect fire, he steadfastly remained at his observation sites and directed numerous naval gunfire missions until late in the afternoon of 14 July, weakened by his wounds, he was medically evacuated. His remarkable fortitude and selfless concern for his mission inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in inflicting severe losses on the enemy and enabling his battalion to continue its offensive. By his courage, superb professionalism, and unswerving devotion to duty at great personal risk, First Lieutenant Biddulph upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.