The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Robert K. Cox (MCSN: 2477312), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 4 March 1969, Private First Class Cox’s squad was on a reconnaissance patrol north of Fire Support Base RUSSELL when the Marines encountered a hostile mine field. Unhesitatingly volunteering to serve as point man as his unit crossed the mine field, Private First Class Cox was seriously wounded by the detonation of an enemy explosive device. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty at great personal risk, Private First Class Cox upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.