The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Lolesio Peko (MCSN: 2042244), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 August 1966. During Operation COLORADO near Tam Ky, Private First Class Peko was moving with the left flank squad of his platoon when it suddenly came under intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. Unhesitatingly, he charged the enemy position, throwing grenades and delivering accurate fire with his rifle. When the initial fire had been silenced, a machine gun opened up on the group and Private First Class Peko again boldly charged with grenades. Courageously exposing himself to the withering hostile fire, he was leading the remainder of his squad to a protected position when he was hit and seriously wounded by small arms fire. His gallant actions undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. By his unusual initiative and daring courage, Private First Class Peko upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.