The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Max McQuown (MCSN: 0-53321), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer, Third Battalion, First Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 2 February 1968, while participating in Operation BADGER CATCH in Quang Tri Province, elements of Lieutenant Colonel McQuown’s unit came under intense mortar and artillery fire closely followed by a well coordinated ground assault by a numerically superior force of North Vietnamese Army Regulars. Immediately dispatching a company-size relief force to aid the besieged unit, he proceeded by armored vehicle to the engaged company’s position. Upon arrival, he personally reconnoitered the area, assumed command and commenced deploying his two units against the enemy. Skillfully coordinating close air support, naval gunfire and artillery with his maneuvering companies, he repeatedly exposed himself to the heavy volume of hostile fire to direct his unit commanders and encourage his men. On one occasion, when he encountered four concealed enemy soldiers, he personally killed one and assisted in capturing the remaining three. Although wounded during the fierce engagement, he steadfastly refused medical evacuation to remain with his men until the successful conclusion of the battle. His superb leadership and determined efforts were instrumental in the defeat of the hostile force, resulting in 141 North Vietnamese confirmed killed and 7 enemy captured in addition to over eighty weapons seized. By his resolute courage, inspiring leadership and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel McQuown upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.