The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ruzell Gray (MCSN: 2384529), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 31 May 1968, while Private First Class Gray and three companions were manning a listening post forward of his company’s defensive perimeter southeast of Khe Sanh, he alertly detected hostile movement nearby. Directed to return to his unit, he found himself cut off by hostile soldiers, who had maneuvered between his listening post and friendly lines. Fearlessly remaining in his dangerously exposed position, he skillfully adjusted mortar and artillery fire on the advancing soldiers, who retaliated with small arms fire and hand grenades. While he was tenaciously defending his emplacement, a satchel charge was thrown into his fighting hold, and Private First Class Gray, thinking only of the welfare of his companions, called a warning to them and then unhesitatingly picked up the charge and threw it from the hole. As the explosive device left his hand it detonated, and Private First Class Gray was mortally wounded when he absorbed the full force of the explosion. His heroic efforts and aggressive fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and were responsible for the death of ten hostile soldiers. By his courage, selfless concern for his fellowmen, and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Gray saved the lives of two fellow Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.