The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Mario R. Leon (MCSN: 2398690), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 29 March 1969, Company F was conducting a search and destroy operation southwest of Dong Ha in Quang Tri Province when it became engaged with a North Vietnamese Army unit occupying heavily fortified emplacements. Reacting instantly, Private First Class Leon fearlessly maneuvered across the hazardous terrain and delivered devastating suppressive fire upon the hostile force. Although seriously wounded by enemy small arms fire, he ignored his painful injuries and resolutely continued to advance until, nearing the point of exhaustion, he encountered a fox hole and, from this partially covered position, resumed his aggressive firing until he was mortally wounded by the detonation of an enemy grenade. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and saved numerous fellow Marines from serious injury or possible death. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Leon contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.