The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Jerry W. Ledin (MCSN: 0-71293), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of 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 5 October 1965, Captain Ledin’s Company was moved from Chu Lai, on short notice, to provide security for a downed helicopter at a Government outpost fourteen miles south of Quang Ngai. Arriving at the objective just before dusk, Captain Ledin immediately established a three-sided perimeter, ingeniously positioning one platoon in a unique manner which was to prove of decisive value in the night’s bitter combat action. Fearlessly exposing himself to sporadic enemy sniper fire, he personally checked each position and coordinated precise night defensive fire plans. His foresight and preparations were severely tested just before midnight, when a heavy barrage of mortar and recoilless rifle fire immediately preceded an attack by fifty to eighty Viet Cong. Although painfully wounded by mortar fragments in the initial barrage, Captain Ledin courageously moved to the second story of a building which already had received several direct hits and was in imminent danger of total destruction. From his hazardous but advantageous observation point, he continued to direct his men, constantly pointing out targets, ensuring evacuation of the wounded and shouting words of encouragement to the fighting Marines below. With exceptional skill, he directed illumination from his mortars, naval guns and a flare ship. Selflessly refusing medical aid for himself, he stalwartly remained at his post throughout the night. As a direct result of his heroism and exemplary professional ability, the outpost was held, the helicopter safely evacuated with no loss of life to the Marines, at least seventeen Viet Cong killed and numerous weapons captured. By his inspiring leadership, exceptional professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk, Captain Ledin upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.