The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Michael A. Harvey (MCSN: 2366216), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator with Headquarters and Service Company, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 25 February 1969, Private Harvey’s company was occupying a defensive position at Fire Support Base RUSSELL in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of mortar fire supporting a ground attack by a large North Vietnamese Army force utilizing small arms, automatic weapons, satchel charges, and rocket-propelled grenades. During the ensuing fierce engagement, Private Harvey had commenced running across fire-swept terrain to repair vital radio communications when he observed that two of his fallen companions were trapped in a collapsed bunker. Fearlessly exposing himself to the intense enemy fire, he began removing the heavy debris in order to free his comrades. As he worked furiously, he observed an enemy round ignite a fuel drum nearby, and with complete disregard for his own safety, unhesitatingly threw himself across the body of a wounded Marine to protect him from the fire and was mortally wounded while performing this selfless act. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and saved the lives of two fellow Marines. By his courage, sincere concern for his fellowmen and unwavering devotion to duty, Private Harvey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.