The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John D. Butts (MCSN: 2038912), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Combined Action Company I, First Combined Action Group, Third Marine Amphibious Force, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 January 1968, Sergeant Butts was serving as Squad Leader with Combined Action Platoon Two which was deployed in a defensive perimeter on Hill 38 at Nui Tac Huong. In the early morning hours, the platoon’s position came under an intense rocket and grenade attack and mortar and small arms fire from a large enemy force, sustaining numerous casualties. Although painfully wounded in the chest and hand, Sergeant Butts courageously rallied his men, reorganized positions and commenced to direct the defense of the perimeter. Fearlessly exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire, he moved from one position to another, resupplying ammunition, encouraging the men and comforting the wounded. Throughout the four hour fire fight, Sergeant Butts continued to move around the perimeter, directing the actions of the platoon in a highly professional manner until the enemy fled from the hill. Then, he organized a security force to provide covering fire for the evacuation helicopter and supervised the evacuation of the casualties. Only when assured that all other casualties had been evacuated did he accept medical assistance for himself, approximately eight hours after he had been wounded. His steadfast determination and indomitable fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his extraordinary courage, superb leadership and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Sergeant Butts upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.