The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Gary C. Griswold (MCSN: 2289655), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as an Assistant Machine Gunner with Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 October 1967 the battalion was assigned the mission of protecting a newly constructed bridge approximately 3000 meters south of Con Thien. The battalion came under heavy rocket and mortar attack, which was followed by a human wave assault of North Vietnamese soldiers. The enemy penetrated Company G’s most forward position and was charging directly toward Private First Class Griswold’s machine gun. The attack was a savage and vicious one, and the enemy had the machine gun pinpointed with heavy automatic weapons and rocket fire. With complete disregard for his own safety he exposed himself constantly while feeding ammunition to his gunner so as to deliver a heavy and accurate rate of fire on the enemy. The machine gun took a direct hit with rocket and automatic weapons fire wounding Private First Class Griswold and also putting the machine gun out of action. Although wounded, he refused to abandon his position, thus allowing other Marines of his company further time to prepare for the vicious battle yet to come. Again with complete disregard for his own personal safety he, along with this squad leader and gunner, attacked the oncoming enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat, inflicting several casualties before he was mortally wounded by enemy automatic weapons fire. His courage, devotion to duty, and inspiring valor in the face of great personal risk were a major contribution to the success of Company G in continuing to defend its sector of the battalion perimeter. Private First Class Griswold reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.