The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Byron Adams Gaines, Jr. (MCSN: 2308724), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 28 December 1967. During Operation AUBURN, Company E came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and grenade launcher fire from a well entrenched force of North Vietnamese Army regulars in Quang Nam Province. In the initial moments of the fire fight, the Marines were temporarily halted by the heavy volume of hostile fire. Private Gaines’ platoon commander moved forward to an exposed vantage point in order to evaluate the situation. Observing an enemy soldier preparing to fire a grenade launcher at his commander’s position, Private Gaines immediately shouted a warning to the officer and knocked him to the ground. With complete disregard for his own safety, he threw himself in front of the man to protect him, and was mortally wounded by the exploding grenade. By his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Private Gaines served to inspire all who observed 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.