The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Earl D. Cushman, Jr. (MCSN: 1949791), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Combat Engineer with Company C, Third Engineer Battalion, THIRD Marine Division, in connection with military operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 10 April 1968, Company C was removing a minefield on Hill 861A near Khe Sanh when a Marine activated a bounding anti-personnel mine which malfunctioned in mid-air. Temporarily blinded by dirt sprayed in his eyes from the initial blast, the dazed man fell backwards into the minefield. Reacting instantly, Corporal Cushman completely disregarded his own safety as he cautiously probed his way through the hazardous area to the position of the endangered Marine. Discovering two mines within a foot of the man and another under the Marine’s leg, Corporal Cushman used his knife to apply pressure on the prongs of the mine as the victim moved his leg. Concerned only for the welfare of his companion, he steadfastly maintained his precarious position and verbally directed the man from the minefield. By his bold courage, calm presence of mind and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Cushman undoubtedly saved the life of his fellow Marine and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.