The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal John M. Bradley (MCSN: 2306247), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company M, Third Battalion, First Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 27 December 1967, during Operation BADGER TOOTH in Quang Tri and Thua Thien Provinces, Lance Corporal Bradley’s company was engaged in an assault against North Vietnamese Army forces in the village of Thon Tham Khe. During the afternoon, the company came under intense enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire, sustained several casualties and was temporarily pinned down. Observing two wounded Marines lying forward of company lines exposed to enemy fire, Lance Corporal Bradley unhesitatingly crawled out into the open area with his machine gun, boldly moved forward under fire and provided protective fire for the casualties. While returning to his position for re-supply of ammunition, he was wounded in the neck and shoulder. Undaunted, he obtained the ammunition, again maneuvered to the exposed forward area and steadfastly provided covering fire until all the casualties were recovered. Then, weak and in extreme pain, Lance Corporal Bradley returned to his position and assisted his companions in every way possible throughout the night, accepting medical evacuation the following day only after all other casualties had been evacuated. His steadfast determination and deep concern for his wounded companions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving several Marine lives. By his extraordinary courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lance Corporal Bradley upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.