The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Kenneth Taylor Mower, Jr. (MCSN: 1938716), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Guide with Company F, Second 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 25 September 1966. During Operation PRAIRIE in Quang Tri Province, Sergeant Mower’s Company was moving to the assistance of Company G when the Second Platoon became heavily engaged with a large enemy force. When the platoon sustained numerous casualties from machine gun and sniper fire, Sergeant Mower’s platoon was ordered forward to add impetus to the attack. Disregarding his own safety, Sergeant Mower advanced to a clearing fifty meters wide which was under intense enemy machine gun, mortar and sniper fire. On three separate occasions, he crossed the exposed area under devastating fire to carry wounded Marines back to safety. After insuring that the casualties were receiving proper medical care, he repeatedly exposed himself to heavy enemy fire to deliver effective covering fire with his M-79 grenade launcher, killing four Viet Cong. His heroic actions undoubtedly saved the lives of the wounded Marines and enabled his Company to move to a more advantageous position. By his courage, initiative, exceptional professional skill and unwavering devotion to duty, Sergeant Mower upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.