The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Charles E. Joeckel (MCSN: 2294975), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 23 January 1968, Corporal Joeckel’s team was patrolling the Yen River when they came upon a suspected enemy position. After the men had disembarked from the patrol boat, Corporal Joeckel, assuming the dangerous point position, led the way toward a narrow beach bordered with heavy jungle growth but, before he could determine the security of the area, was seriously wounded by fragments from an antipersonnel mine. Although suffering intense pain and the shock of his traumatic experience, he retained full control of the situation and, fearing additional mines or a possible ambush by hostile soldiers who might be located in the wooded area, immediately warned the Marines following him not to attempt to approach or assist him. Resolutely fighting unconsciousness, he made a Herculean effort to utilize the radio he carried to summon a medical evacuation helicopter, and, maintaining great stamina, skillfully directed the clearing of a safe landing zone. A later detailed investigation of the beach revealed another well-concealed antipersonnel mine which, without Corporal Joeckel’s timely and heroic warning, could easily have caused loss of life or additional serious casualties among his companions. By his courage, valiant determination, and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, Corporal Joeckel inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.