The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Southy Grinalds (MCSN: 0-77793), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict against the Communist insurgent forces in the Republic of Vietnam from 2 September to 4 September 1966, while serving as Advisor to the Fourth Battalion, Vietnamese Marine Brigade. Captain Grinalds organized and directed coordinated artillery and infantry attacks which resulted in many Viet Cong killed and numerous insurgent weapons confiscated. In each attack, Captain Grinalds moved ahead of the assault units to direct accurate artillery fire, although this forward position brought him under direct close range enemy fire. During one engagement on 3 September 1966, although pinned down by heavy insurgent fire, Captain Grinalds organized a flanking attack on enemy positions which resulted in many Viet Cong killed. Following a heavy mortar attack during the early morning hours of 4 September 1966, Captain Grinalds organized a medical evacuation and, heedless of the continuous sniper fire directed at him, placed flashlights in an open area to identify the zone. He remained in an exposed position to direct the helicopters to the zone for pickup of wounded personnel. The evacuation was accomplished swiftly and without any casualties being incurred. Captain Grinalds’ inspiring leadership, courage under fire, and outstanding professionalism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.