The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Wayne Franklin Loughrey (MCSN: 0-89856), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 25 March 1966, during a night defensive action south of DaNang, First Lieutenant Loughrey’s assigned sector was viciously assaulted by a company size Viet Cong force. Reacting instantly, First Lieutenant Loughrey quickly organized a provisional squad and commenced a counterattack. On two occasions, in the midst of heavy enemy mortar and small arms fire, he fearlessly led the men in aggressive action which drove the Viet Cong from his position. Although he sustained painful shrapnel wounds in his heroic effort, he continued to move back and forth along his lines, directing fire, assisting casualties, redistributing ammunition and shouting encouragement to his men. As a direct result of his daring action, heavy casualties were inflicted on the enemy and the attack was broken. Following the withdrawal of the Viet Cong, First Lieutenant Loughrey stalwartly remained with his unit for twelve hours, refusing evacuation for treatment of his wounds. By his extraordinary fighting spirit, bold leadership and unswerving dedication to duty throughout, First Lieutenant Loughrey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.