The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Steven George Herman (MCSN: 2149874), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Casualty Reporter with the S-1 Section of the First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. In the early morning hours of 8 May 1967, the Marine outpost at Con Thien came under an intense rocket, mortar and artillery attack which was closely followed with an assault against the position by a numerically superior force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars. During the ensuing battle, elements of the enemy unit effectively utilized small arms, grenades, satchel charges and flame throwers to penetrate the defensive perimeter. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Herman unhesitatingly volunteered to accompany a reaction force and assist in repulsing the attackers. Upon learning that the North Vietnamese had overrun several Marine bunkers and were occupying them, he obtained a supply of hand grenades and, disregarding his own safety, aggressively advanced against the enemy positions. Under cover of a base of fire established by fellow Marines, he fearlessly maneuvered across open terrain and assaulted the bunkers until his supply of hand grenades was expended. Returning to friendly lines, he obtained a rifle and joined his comrades in an attack against the bunkers which killed the remaining North Vietnamese defenders. His bold initiative and calm presence of mind in the face of extreme personal danger were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, exceptional professionalism and unfaltering devotion to duty, Corporal Herman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.