The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Richard H. Henry (MCSN: 0-100319), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Late on the afternoon of 15 May 1969, two platoons from Company E were pinned down by intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from well-fortified enemy positions while moving to assist an adjacent company which was heavily engaged in combat with a hostile force. Rapidly assessing the situation, First Lieutenant Henry unhesitatingly led two squads and two supporting tanks across the hazardous terrain to aid the beleaguered Marines. When enemy rockets struck and rendered the tanks inoperable, First Lieutenant Henry completely disregarded his own safety as he resolutely moved to a position in front of the tanks and fearlessly remained in his dangerously exposed position to deliver rifle fire on the hostile force, while shouting instructions and words of encouragement to his men. Inspired by his heroic actions, his men rallied and began to deliver highly effective fire. Undaunted by the enemy rounds impacting around him, First Lieutenant Henry valiantly moved around the precarious area to vantage points from which he could more effectively direct supporting arms fire and observe and direct the actions of his men. As a result of his skill in directing actions which suppressed the enemy fire, the Marine casualties were moved to positions or relative safety. Once this was accomplished, he regrouped his men, organized a defensive position, and established a landing zone to extract the casualties. His resolute determination and aggressive fighting spirit inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several of his fellow Marines. By his courage, superb leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, First Lieutenant Henry upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.