The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Brian Richard O’Connor (MCSN: 0-94002), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Commander, Second Platoon, with Company H, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 29 January 1967. Second Lieutenant O’Connor was ordered to assault an enemy position which had another friendly platoon pinned down by heavy automatic weapons and rifle fire in an open ride paddy. By his fearless determination, he maneuvered his platoon across some 800 meters under intense enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Second Lieutenant O’Connor exposed himself to the withering enemy fire, shouting instructions to his men and pointing out enemy positions. After routing the enemy from the left flank position and causing them to flee, he then rallied his men and continued the assault on the remaining enemy positions which still had the other platoon pinned down. Although the men were near the point of exhaustion from the previous assault, he inspired them to such a degree that they continued 250 meters in the maze of enemy bunkers and trenches, destroying the enemy within or causing them to break and run. By his aggressiveness, Second Lieutenant O’Connor was instrumental in breaking the enemy main line of resistance and undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the Marines in the other platoon. His gallant leadership, fearless actions and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.