The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Leonard Lagrone, Jr. (MCSN: 2297090), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company G, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 29 July 1967, during Operation KINGFISHER while on a search and destroy mission deep within the Demilitarized Zone, Lance Corporal Lagrone’s battalion came under intense small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire from a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. In the initial attack, his company, providing rear security, was separated from the main element of the battalion and faced the imminent danger of being overrun. Aware of his unit’s perilous position, Lance Corporal Lagrone fearlessly advanced to a position from which he could observe the enemy. Disregarding his own safety, he boldly stood in the enemy’s line of fire and, firing his machine gun from his shoulder, delivered highly accurate fire against the hostile positions. Forced to take cover at least five times because of heavy return fire, Lance Corporal Lagrone displayed resolute determination and returned each time continuing to fire his machine gun and subsequently killing fifteen enemy soldiers. His valiant efforts in the face of overwhelming odds inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in repulsing several attempts by the enemy to overrun his unit’s position. By his extraordinary courage, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Lance Corporal Lagrone upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.