The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Richard Earl Chapa (MCSN: 0-93882), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company C, First Battalion, Third Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 May 1967, during Operation BEAVER CAGE, First Lieutenant Chapa’s platoon was moving to the assistance of another Marine unit which was heavily engaged with an enemy force. As he attempted to envelop the enemy from the left flank, his unit came under intense automatic weapons and mortar fire. Skillfully leading his men, First Lieutenant Chapa succeeded in reaching a trench line used by the enemy to maneuver against the Marines. Displaying exceptional leadership and bold initiative, he moved from the trench line to an unprotected position from which he delivered accurate M-79 grenade and rifle fire at the hostile force, halting the enemy’s advance. Although wounded in the hand, he returned to the trench line, obtained several hand grenades and again moved to a vantage point where he prevented a second attempt by the enemy to overrun his position. Although he was wounded again by mortar fragments, First Lieutenant Chapa quickly organized his men and aggressively led them in an assault which forced the enemy to flee from their positions. Subsequently, he assisted in recovering three mortally wounded Marines and their equipment from an open rice paddy. His determination and aggressive fighting spirit were instrumental in the defeat of the enemy and were an inspiration to all who served with him. By his steadfast courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Chapa upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.