The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles L. Brown (MCSN: 1998034), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 24 February 1969, while the Third Platoon of Company L was maneuvering up Hill 1224 during Operation DEWEY CANYON the point element came under a heavy volume of automatic weapons, small arms, and rifle propelled grenade fire. Reacting instantly, Sergeant Brown skillfully organized his squad, established an effective base of fire, and then prepared to assault the enemy emplacements. Utilizing the element of surprise and with complete disregard for his own safety, he deployed a fire team for the purpose of enveloping the enemy position and then led the remainder of his squad directly into the hostile fire, causing all but one of the disorganized enemy soldiers to withdraw. Although wounded by an exploding rifle-propelled grenade, Sergeant Brown resolutely continued to lead the assault and fearlessly running up the hill in advance of his squad, reached the hostile positions and captured the remaining enemy soldier. Immediately establishing a defensive perimeter to ensure the welfare of his squad, he ably guarded his prisoner guaranteeing his safety for subsequent interrogation. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Sergeant Brown contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.