The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William L. Fillon (MCSN: 2132270), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company F, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 2 February 1967, Lance Corporal Fillon’s fire team was positioned along the Battalion Command Post’s perimeter defense near Dai Loc. Shortly after dark, rocks were thrown at his position from outside the perimeter. Realizing the possibility of grenades being delivered in the same manner, he dispersed his men and reported the incident to his squad leader. While he was talking with his squad leader, a grenade landed between the two Marines. Shouting a warning, Lance Corporal Fillon unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own safety, dove on the grenade and then threw it to the rear of the bunker where it exploded. His daring and heroic actions undoubtedly saved the lives of his fellow Marines. By his extreme courage, outstanding initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Fillon upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.