The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Douglas Keith Burkhardt (MCSN: 2365259), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator with the First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 5 March 1968, Private First Class Burkhardt was serving with a fifteen-man reconnaissance patrol manning an observation post deep in enemy controlled territory south of DaNang when their position was attacked by an estimated twenty-five enemy soldiers. Seriously wounded, along with the patrol leader, by fragments from three enemy hand grenades that exploded in his fighting position, Private First Class Burkhardt disregarded his painful injuries and contacted his headquarters to inform them of the patrol’s situation. Realizing the immediate need for close air support and medical evacuation of casualties, he requested emergency assistance. Lapsing temporarily into unconsciousness from the severity of his wounds, he recovered consciousness as the aircraft arrived over the area and displayed extraordinary fortitude as he accurately directed air strikes against the hostile positions. After the fixed wing aircraft made several firing runs, the enemy fire was suppressed sufficiently to allow the evacuation helicopters to enter the hazardous zone. Monitoring his radio, he provided the helicopter pilots with information on the ground situation and directed them to a safe landing. The casualties were then quickly embarked and expeditiously evacuated from the area. By his superior professional skill, steadfast courage and selfless devotion to duty despite his wounds, Private First Class Burkhardt inspired all who observed him and upheld the finest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.