The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Michael J. Lawrence (MCSN: 54401671), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company H, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 23 August 1969, while participating in a search and destroy operation in Quang Nam Province, elements of the Second Battalion came under a heavy volume of fire from a well-concealed North Vietnamese Army force, which seriously wounded three Marines. Unhesitatingly volunteering to assist in recovering the casualties, Private First Class Lawrence boldly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain and was within ten meters of attaining his goal when he was wounded and forced to withdraw. Again, on 25 August, his company was subjected to intense hostile machine gun fire which severely wounded several Marines and a Corpsman, who fell in a forward area dangerously exposed to hostile fire. Fully aware of the risks involved but unwilling to allow the helpless Corpsman to remain subjected to the enemy fusillade raking the area, Private First Class Lawrence valiantly moved forward in the face of relentless hostile fire and was mortally wounded while carrying the Corpsman back to a covered position. By his courage, aggressive initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class 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.