The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William W. Lomen (MCSN: 2315005), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 7 July 1968, Company C was occupying a defensive position near Hill 689 south of Khe Sanh, when the Marines suddenly came under a heavy volume of mortar fire supporting a ground attack by a large North Vietnamese force. Realizing that his platoon commander had been seriously wounded, Corporal Lomen immediately assumed command of the unit and repeatedly exposed himself to the intense enemy fire as he moved about the hazardous area redeploying his men to advantageous firing positions. When he was ordered to withdraw his Marines so that supporting arms could be employed against the enemy, Corporal Lomen skillfully directed the maneuver of his men while coordinating the evacuation of casualties and maintaining a heavy volume of suppressive fire on the hostile soldiers. Ignoring the enemy rounds impacting near him, he positioned his men in a strong defensive perimeter and, fearlessly exposing himself to the accurate hostile fire, began assisting his injured comrades to covered positions. Continuing his determined efforts throughout the night, he was instrumental in preventing the North Vietnamese soldiers from penetrating his company’s perimeter. By his courage, aggressive leadership and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great danger, Corporal Lomen inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.