The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Patrick John Muraca (MCSN: 2418335), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 17 February 1969, during Operation DEWEY CANYON, Company E was conducting a patrol near Hill 891 in Quang Tri Province when the point squad came under intense hostile automatic weapons fire and sustained several casualties. Rapidly analyzing the situation and realizing the need to relieve the pressure on the point element, Lance Corporal Muraca maneuvered his men to flank the enemy, and after directing their fire against the hostile force, he fearlessly moved forward and fired a light anti-tank assault weapon at the enemy. Then maneuvering back to his squad’s position, he obtained additional weapons and unhesitatingly moved across the fire-swept terrain to his former firing position from which he delivered four more rounds upon the hostile force, silencing the enemy fire. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and enabled his companions to evacuate several casualties from the hazardous area. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lance Corporal Muraca upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.