The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Noah R. Linkous (MCSN: 2238101), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 2 November 1969, Private First Class Linkous’ squad was conducting a patrol hear Hill 63 as part of a battalion-sized search and destroy operation. As the squad proceeded down into a deep ravine, the Marines came under intense fire from a large, well-fortified hostile force approximately thirty meters away. When the Marines were pinned down by the enemy fire, Private First Class Linkous fearlessly rushed to an advantageous position from which he began delivering grenade launcher fire at the hostile force. Although he was wounded twice as he moved about the fire-swept terrain, he steadfastly continued firing at the enemy from an exposed position on high ground. Unable to walk due to his leg wounds, Private First Class Linkous valiantly crawled several meters to another firing position and delivered accurate and effective fire at the hostile soldiers, enabling the Marines to maneuver to more advantageous positions and ultimately assault the enemy fortifications. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in assisting the Marines to regain the initiative in a perilous situation. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Linkous upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.