The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Bruce G. Olson (MCSN: 1990196), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 15 May 1969, the First Platoon of Company E was moving to reinforce Company G, which was surrounded by a battalion-sized North Vietnamese force, when the Marines came under intense fire from a large, hostile force entrenched in a tree line. As a result of the enemy fire, the Marines were pinned down in an open are and sustained several casualties. As the Second Platoon arrived and began to maneuver against the hostile force, the platoon commander was seriously wounded. Unhesitatingly taking charge of the platoon, Sergeant Olson rapidly analyzed the tactical situation and quickly deployed his men to return fire upon the enemy positions. With complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire as he moved from one position to another, directing the fire of his men. Upon the arrival of supportive tanks, Sergeant Olson fearlessly led his platoon across the fire-swept terrain in an effort to evacuate the casualties from the hazardous area and, despite the heavy volume of enemy fire, boldly boarded a tank and directed its fire at the enemy emplacements until the vehicle’s ammunition was depleted. Instructing his men to provide covering fire, he then supervised the evacuation of the wounded Marines. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Sergeant Olson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.