The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Floyd E. Parton (MCSN: 2388524), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company B, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 8 October 1968, while his platoon was occupying a night defensive position near Khe Sanh, Lance Corporal Parton was on the perimeter security watch when he detected movement to his immediate front. Observing an estimated squad of North Vietnamese soldiers, he was attempting to warn his fire team when the enemy commenced delivering a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire at his position. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Parton immediately threw numerous hand grenades at the onrushing enemy soldiers and rapidly delivered accurate suppressive fire at them in a fearless attempt to halt the determined assault. As he moved about the fire-swept area, shouting words of encouragement to his men and directing their fire on the attacking force, Lance Corporal Parton was severely wounded. Undaunted by the serious injury, he valiantly continued to deliver effective fire against the enemy and encourage his men until he succumbed to his wound. His aggressive fighting spirit and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the subsequent defeat of the hostile force. By his courage, bold initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Parton upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.