The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Larry E. Foster (MCSN: 2376944), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company M, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 26 December 1968, the Second Platoon had established a night ambush southwest of DaNang when a platoon-size North Vietnamese Army force was detected near the Marines’ position. Disregarding his own safety, Private First Class Foster unhesitatingly joined a three-man patrol which deployed in pursuit of the hostile soldiers, and directing a heavy volume of grenade launcher fire upon the enemy, he skillfully forced the North Vietnamese toward the Marine ambush. During the ensuing engagement, he was mortally wounded by enemy small arms fire. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind enabled his platoon to capture numerous documents containing valuable intelligence information. By his courage, bold initiative and unfaltering devotion to duty, Private First Class Foster inspired all who served with him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.