The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Richard Greene Maddox (MCSN: 0-95664), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company D, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 2 September 1968, Captain Maddox was informed that the section of the DaNang Barrier within his company’s area of responsibility had been penetrated in several locations by an enemy force. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, he immediately obtained a vehicle and, as he maneuvered toward the area of reported hostile activity, commenced to conduct a visual reconnaissance of the barrier. Approaching the area of enemy penetrations, his vehicle suddenly detonated an enemy explosive device and immediately caught on fire. Although sustaining multiple fragmentation wounds and severe burns from the violent explosion, Captain Maddox fought desperately to maintain consciousness until a reaction force arrived. Resolutely ignoring his painful injuries, he calmly encouraged the other casualties and, upon the arrival of assistance, directed the Marines in establishing security while requesting medical evacuation helicopters. Continuing his determined efforts, he then manned a radio and contacted his battalion command post, providing his unit with accurate information concerning the seriousness of the situation, until he was medically evacuated. His exceptional leadership and calm presence of mind inspired all who served with him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, resolute determination and unwavering devotion to duty, Captain Maddox upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.