The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Harold Tucker Braddock, Jr. (MCSN: 2083160), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 May 1966. Corporal Braddock was serving as Squad Leader for the First Squad, Third Platoon, when it was ambushed by an estimated 60 Viet Cong insurgents. Fire from heavy machine guns and automatic weapons poured in from three sides, wounding several men in the initial volley. Nevertheless, Corporal Braddock maintained control of his squad throughout the 35-minute onslaught and directed effective fire upon the enemy. When one Viet Cong unit attempted to overrun his trapped squad, Corporal Braddock, with utter disregard for his own safety, stood up, exposing himself to the intense fire, and personally killed or wounded three of the enemy, breaking up the attack and forcing their return to cover. Corporal Braddock’s display of uncommon courage, exceptional leadership and professional skill under fire inspired the squad to hold the enemy at bay until a relief force could arrive. His heroic actions and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.