The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John A. Hembrough (MCSN: 2465384), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Gunner with the 81-mm. Mortar Platoon, 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 the morning of 25 February 1969, Private First Class Hembrough’s platoon was occupying a defensive position at Fire Support Base RUSSELL in Quang Tri Province when a large North Vietnamese Army unit, supported by mortar and rocket fire, assaulted and subsequently penetrated the friendly perimeter. Reacting instantly, Private First Class Hembrough unhesitatingly rushed toward the advancing enemy, delivering accurate fire, fearlessly engaged the North Vietnamese in hand-to-hand combat, and killed several hostile soldiers. After sustaining a painful injury, he steadfastly continued his determined efforts and again engaged hostile soldiers in hand-to-hand combat until he was wounded a second time by an exploding grenade. Unable to continue his assault upon the enemy force, he then delivered a steady volume of suppressive fire until he lost consciousness. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and accounted for several hostile soldiers killed. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Hembrough upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.