The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant John K. Helton (MCSN: 2046079), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 July 1967. Sergeant Helton’s squad was conducting a patrol when it came under attack from a well-entrenched and well concealed Viet Cong force of an undetermined number. Aware that some of his men were wounded in the initial burst of enemy fire, he reacted quickly, and had the injured men moved to protected areas and ordered a protective defense around them. Then in order to ensure an accurate account of the situation, he unhesitatingly moved forward along the squad column, encouraging his men and directing their fire, so that fire superiority might be gained. During the firefight, Sergeant Helton repeatedly exposed himself to the heavy volume of enemy fire as he raced from position to position directing his men. As he courageously moved through the enemy fire instructing and supervising his squad, he was struck by an enemy bullet. Though seriously wounded, and seemingly driven by a natural possession of coolness and leadership qualities, he instinctively sensed the proper time for aggressive assault upon the enemy. Although there was a heavy volume of enemy fire into his position, Sergeant Helton directed his men in a successful assault, driving the entrenched enemy into a speedy retreat. By his daring and heroic actions exceptional military skill, inspiring leadership, and selfless devotion t duty, he upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.