The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Donald J. Cline, Jr., United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on 23 March 2003 while serving as a Rifleman with Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, Task Force TARAWA, I Marine Expeditionary Force in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. During the company’s movement north to the Saddam Canal Bridge, Lance Corporal Cline’s amphibious assault vehicle came under heavy rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire. He immediately engaged the enemy with well-aimed fire to cover his squad’s movement across the bridge. The vehicle halted on the eastern side of an elevated four-lane highway, and the squad assumed a position covering the company’s northeast flank. Several Marines near him were severely wounded by the intense artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire. With total disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Cline left his covered position and exposed himself to enemy fire, while aiding his fellow Marines by moving them from a casualty collection point to a medical evacuation vehicle. He tirelessly carried wounded Marines 75 meters across the perilous highway. Upon securing the last casualty, he maneuvered to an adjacent vehicle, began loading water and essential medical gear, and then provided security for the casualties. Moments later Lance Corporal Cline was mortally wounded, bravely sacrificing his own life to protect his wounded comrades. By his bold initiative, undaunted courage, and complete dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Cline reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.