The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Juan R. Perez-Padin (MCSN: 2342741), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gun Team Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 26 August 1969, while Company E was conducting a search and destroy operation in Hiep Duc Valley in Quang Nam Province, the Marines came under intense sniper fire from hostile soldiers occupying well-concealed emplacements and sustained several casualties. Observing that the wounded men were pinned down in an exposed area, Lance Corporal Perez-Padin, with complete disregard for his own safety, fought his way across the fire-swept terrain to the injured Marines. On five separate occasions, he braved the sniper fire to carry his companions to covered locations where they could receive medical attention and await evacuation in relative safety. Ignoring the hostile rounds impacting around him, Lance Corporal Perez-Padin had begun maneuvering toward a sixth casualty when he was mortally wounded by sniper fire. His heroic actions and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of five Marines. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Perez-Padin 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.