The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Daniel Patrick Pierce (MCSN: 2162927), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam on 25 September 1955. During a combat patrol south of DaNang, Lance Corporal Pierce’s unit was ambushed by enemy forces, wounding three Marines during the initial burst of fire and grenade attack. Within minutes, three more men became casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Pierce, rushing forward through intense enemy fire and leaping over his fallen comrades, delivered heavy suppressive fire on the enemy positions concealed in the thick brush and trees. He selflessly remained in a position exposed to enemy fire to assist in the evacuation of the wounded men. After removing his cartridge belt, helmet, flak jacket and rifle, he quickly but carefully moved the casualties back to the relative safety of his unit’s position. His heroic actions undoubtedly saved numerous lives and were instrumental in killing three of the enemy and causing the main enemy force to break contact. By his uncommon initiative, great courage, exceptional concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines and inspiring devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Pierce upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.