The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal John T. Paulin (MCSN: 2487685), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Early on the morning of 7 June 1969, Lance Corporal Paulin and his squad members were occupying defensive positions along his company’s perimeter approximately ten miles west of Go Noi Island in Quang Nam Province. Suddenly, the Marines came under an intense enemy ground attack supported by mortars and rocket-propelled grenades. Reacting instantly, Lance Corporal Paulin directed the fire of his men against the hostile soldiers and encouraged them in their defensive efforts while he simultaneously delivered accurate and effective rifle fire against the enemy with his own weapon. Observing that an adjacent machine gun position had been overrun by hostile soldiers, he fearlessly left his covered position and, with complete disregard for his own safety, rushed toward the enemy. When he was five feet from the machine gun, Lance Corporal Paulin was mortally wounded by a hostile round. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and delayed the enemy advance long enough for his comrades to secure the perimeter. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Paulin upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.