The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Thomas Antone Cincotta (MCSN: 2483094), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Point Man with Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 June 1969, during Operation UTAH MESA, Company L was conducting a search and destroy operation in the hills southwest of Khe Sanh when one platoon became pinned down by intense fire from a North Vietnamese force entrenched in bunkers and employing small arms, automatic weapons, and rocket propelled grenades. As Private First Class Cincotta’s platoon moved up the adjoining hill to aid the beleaguered unit, Private First Class Cincotta boldly volunteered to assume the hazardous point position. Cautiously advancing up the hill, he alertly detected the presence of concealed enemy soldiers. Realizing that there was no time to warn his platoon, he fearlessly assaulted the nearest hostile bunker, thereby alerting his companions to the danger. As he valiantly rushed forward, in his single-handed attack, Private First Class Cincotta was mortally wounded by enemy automatic weapons fire. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and his warning to his platoon was instrumental in preventing Marine casualties an din the subsequent defeat of the enemy force. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Cincotta upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.