The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Homer Lee Hodges, Jr. (MCSN: 2094758), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 9 September 1968, while directing his men in an assault on a large enemy force in Quang Tri Province, Lance Corporal Hodges observed that his platoon sergeant was wounded and pinned down in a bomb crater by a heavy volume of enemy fire. Completely disregarding his own safety, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to the accurate hostile fire as he maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to aid his comrade. After administering first aid to his Platoon Sergeant and observing nearby Marines attempting to gain an advantageous position on the slope of the hill, Lance Corporal Hodges boldly left the bomb crater to resume leading his men in the assault. Undaunted by the intense enemy fire, he fearlessly moved throughout the hazardous area, shouting words of encouragement to his men and leading them forward, until he was mortally wounded. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Hodges inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.