The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Lanny William Phipps (MCSN: 2255099), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 7 December 1968, Company A was conducting a search and destroy operation in Quang Nam Province when the Marines were pinned down by intense machine gun fire from a reinforced North Vietnamese Army platoon occupying a fortified position and sustained heavy casualties. Rapidly assessing the situation, Lance Corporal Phipps fearlessly commenced maneuvering across the fire-swept terrain in an assault upon the nearest enemy machine gun position. Ignoring the hostile rounds impacting near him, he boldly continued moving across the hazardous area, delivering accurate suppressive fire upon the hostile soldiers and had advanced to within ten meters of the North Vietnamese emplacement when he was mortally wounded by a concealed enemy sniper. His daring initiative and heroic efforts inspired 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, Lance Corporal Phipps upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.