The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Gunnery Sergeant James J. MacKenna (MCSN: 1356083), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Co Bi Thanh Tan, Republic of Vietnam, on 29 May 1966. Sergeant MacKenna’s platoon, along with the rest of Company E, had come to reinforce another company which had engaged an estimated Viet Cong platoon. As they were moving through a series of enemy reinforced bunkers, a hidden sniper, who had already killed and wounded several Marines, caused two of Sergeant MacKenna’s squads to be pinned down. Unhesitatingly and with absolute disregard for his own safety, Sergeant MacKenna hurried to the critical point of the action and fearlessly moved along his platoon front in an effort to draw the enemy fire and learn the exact position of the Marines’ adversary. While personally and courageously leading the assault, he was mortally wounded. By his valiant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and tenacious perseverance in the face of tremendous odds, Sergeant MacKenna served as an inspiration to all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.