The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Gregory H. Nelson (MCSN: 0-12415), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), Provisional Marine Aircraft Group Thirty-Nine, FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 17 June 1969, First Lieutenant Nelson launched as Aircraft Commander of a light observation aircraft assigned the mission of providing support for elements of the Third Marines which were heavily engaged in combat with a large North Vietnamese Army force near the Demilitarized Zone. After arriving over the designated location, he observed that the hostile unit had formed into small groups and was attempting to break contact. Taking immediate charge of all other supporting aircraft, First Lieutenant Nelson executed several low-altitude passes to mark the enemy positions, and then skillfully controlled the activities of fixed-wing aircraft and armed helicopters. Although he was repeatedly subjected to intense hostile fire, numerous rounds of which penetrated his aircraft, he resolutely continued his determined efforts, flying continually lower passes to ensure that enemy positions in dangerous proximity to the Marines were accurately marked. His heroic and determined actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the defeat of the North Vietnamese Army force. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger, First Lieutenant Nelson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.