The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Simone John Pace (MCSN: 0-91989), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Platoon Commander, First Platoon, Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 21 May 1966. When another platoon of Second Lieutenant Pace’s company came under intense fire from a numerically superior Viet Cong force, larger than anticipated, it became necessary to commit the remainder of the company to an assault to relieve the pressure on the remnants. Placed in charge of two platoons by the company commander, Second Lieutenant Pace launched an assault, reinforced by two tanks and an LVT, against what was later determined to be a Viet Cong company. Displaying uncommon courage and complete disregard for his personal safety, he led the two platoons against the enemy at close range, often in hand to hand combat. Undaunted by the intensity of the fire fight, Second Lieutenant Pace directed and encouraged his Marines in the assault under heavy and continuous 60-mm. mortar, 57-mm. recoilless rifle, and small arms fire. As a result of his inspiring leadership and tactical expertise, his platoons gained fire superiority and drove the enemy from the field. Fifty-three enemy were confirmed killed and numerous enemy weapons and military equipment were captured. By his uncommon perseverance, courageous actions, and selfless devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Pace reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.