The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert John Espinola (MCSN: 2289764), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 27 January 1968, while conducting a search and destroy operation north of Camp J. J. CARROLL, Corporal Espinola’s platoon suddenly came under intense automatic weapons and recoilless rifle fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force and was pinned down. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Espinola, accompanied by another Marine, unhesitatingly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain toward the hostile emplacements. Completely disregarding his personal safety, he advanced to within a few meters of the enemy and accurately threw hand grenades into the hostile positions. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting near him, he courageously continued his determined assault, forcing the hostile soldiers to flee in panic and confusion and enabling his platoon to continue to maneuver forward. His heroic efforts and bold leadership were an inspiration to all who observed him and were instrumental in the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Corporal Espinola upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.