The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Ira E. Lackey (MCSN: 1933997), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 8 July 1967. During a squad size patrol near Nobi Than Than in Thua Thien Province, Sergeant Lackey’s unit came under heavy enemy small arms fire. Reacting instantly, he moved forward to evaluate the situation and to direct and encourage his men in repulsing the enemy assault. As he moved among his men, Sergeant Lackey stepped into a concealed punji pit and was painfully wounded when a punji stake deeply embedded in his leg. Exhibiting exceptional courage and resolute determination, he pulled the punji stake from his leg and fearlessly continued his advance against the enemy. As he reached the front of the squad march column, he inadvertently tripped an enemy booby trap device, causing an explosion which resulted in the traumatic amputation of his lower left leg and his right foot. Seemingly undaunted by his serious wounds, Sergeant Lackey skillfully and expeditiously organized a defensive position to protect the wounded and ensured that the momentum of the attack was continued. Despite his excruciating pain, he radioed a complete and concise situation report to the company commander and requested medical evacuation helicopters for the casualties. Throughout the engagement, his complete disregard for his own safety and selfless concern for the welfare of his men were instrumental in defeating the Viet Cong and undoubtedly saved numerous Marine lives. By his inspiring leadership, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Sergeant Lackey contributed to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.