The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Richard W. Forness (MCSN: 2360345), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Seventh Communication Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with military operations in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 June 1968, Corporal Forness was a member of a six-man ambush patrol established in a position on the north bank of the Cau Do River in Quang Nam Province. After a member of the ambush force fired his weapon at two Viet Cong moving down the river bank, the patrol leader and two other men moved forward to investigate. Almost immediately, they came under intense hostile automatic weapons which mortally wounded two of the Marines and critically wounded the third. Reacting instantly, Corporal Forness assumed control of the patrol and moved across the fire-swept area, firing his M-79 grenade launcher into the source of the enemy fire until his ammunition was expended. Refusing to seek cover, he then picked up a fallen Marine’s rifle and delivered a heavy volume of accurate fire that completely silenced the hostile fire. Directing another Marine forward to assist him, he pulled the wounded men to covered positions and skillfully administered first aid. Upon learning that the patrol radio was inoperative due to enemy fire, he deployed the two uninjured Marines in defensive positions and began moving through the hazardous area toward his battalion’s position. After traveling one mile through hostile territory, he entered the battalion perimeter and provided an accurate report of the situation which enabled a reaction force to locate and successfully evacuate the beleaguered Marines. His calm presence of mind and decisive action were instrumental in saving his fellow Marines from further injury or possible death. By his courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Corporal Forness upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.