The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Edward L. Hutchinson, Jr. (MCSN: 0-90290), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam on 2 July 1967. Company C was ordered to reinforce Company B, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, who were heavily engaged with the enemy, and sustaining heavy casualties. Captain Hutchinson maneuvered his company through numerous enemy occupied hedge rows and devastating mortar and artillery fire delivered by an estimated 2,500 North Vietnamese Army Regulars. Once completing the link-up, he supervised the evacuation of all wounded Marines. Although painfully wounded, he remained behind until the remainder of his company had either been evacuated or withdrawn from the area. He personally led the remaining squad of one platoon to the aid of five wounded Marines who had been pinned down by small arms fire and flame throwers. By his bold initiative, dauntless courage and loyal devotion to duty, Captain Hutchinson reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.