The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Milton Parker (MCSN: 1548859), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 5 February 1968, Staff Sergeant Parker’s platoon was assigned to seize a building complex in the city of Hue which was heavily defended by a large enemy force. Approaching the objective, the platoon suddenly came under intense enemy automatic weapons and anti-tank rocket fire, which pinned down the Marines, killing one man and wounding several others. Although wounded in both arms and both legs by fragments from an exploding enemy anti-tank round, Staff Sergeant Parker fearlessly exposed himself to the hostile fire while moving from one position to another, encouraging his men and directing their fire. As he directed the evacuation of casualties, he simultaneously maneuvered his platoon forward in an aggressive assault which enabled the Marines to seize their assigned objective. After receiving medical treatment, he steadfastly refused medical evacuation in order to remain with his platoon. When his unit launched an attack on the following day, his platoon commander was wounded and evacuated. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Staff Sergeant Parker immediately assumed command of the unit and ably continued to direct the Marines’ attack. His superb leadership and resolute determination were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Staff Sergeant Parker upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.