The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal John F. Lawrence (MCSN: 2455299), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company F, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 30 April 1969, Company B was conducting a search and destroy operation near the Vu Gia River in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of small arms and automatic weapons fire from a large enemy force and sustained numerous casualties. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting near him, Lance Corporal Lawrence commenced assisting in carrying the wounded Marines to relatively safe locations. Alertly observing an injured Corpsman, he boldly moved through the intense enemy fire to the side of the casualty and, despite sustaining a painful injury, resolutely carried his wounded comrade to a protected position. Continuing his determined efforts, he attempted to assist another injured man, but upon reaching the side of the casualty, Lance Corporal Lawrence succumbed to his wounds. By his courage, sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Lawrence 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 for his country.