The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Robert S. Matern (MCSN: 2131996), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Sergeant of the Second Platoon, Company L, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, 3d Marine Division (Reinforced), FMF, in the Republic of Vietnam on 1 June 1967. The company was conducting a search and clear mission during Operation Cimarron when it came under intense enemy fire fro a North Vietnamese Army from the withering fire. It was imperative that a perimeter be established immediately to prevent the situation from becoming cynical. All the platoons were engaged in heavy fighting and several attempts to link up were unsuccessful, Sergeant Matern, fully aware of the great danger involved, volunteered to lead a squad across a large open area flanked by a woodline from which heavy fire was coming. This action was necessary to link the platoons together. Receiving intense fire all the way, he directed his squad’s fire and maneuvered all of his men across the open area. Just short of the other side, Sergeant Matern, who was leading, was cut down by fire from a hidden machine gun. Inspired by their Platoon Sergeant’s courageous example, his men continued the assault and destroyed the position which had been inflicting many casualties and preventing the link up. Sergeant Matern’s heroic actions were directly responsible for enabling the critical link-up which allowed the embattled company to hold in the face of overwhelming odds and to eventually destroy the entire enemy complex. His courageous and selfless actions served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.