The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Corporal Lawrence J. Lazaro (MCSN: 1950010), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 September 1966. While the second platoon of Company E was on a patrol in jungle terrain of Quang Tri Province, it came under heavy small-arms and automatic weapons fire from a large Viet Cong force. The squad leader was wounded during the initial exchange of fire and Corporal Lazaro immediately assumed command. Continually exposing himself to enemy fire, he moved from position to position inspiring the other men with his dynamic leadership and courageous fighting spirit. He redistributed ammunition and directed fire where it would be most effective against the enemy. Upon hearing that there were wounded comrades pinned down on the point, Corporal Lazaro and three volunteers fought their way under fire to the wounded. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Lazaro calmly supervised the evacuation of the dead and wounded and then brought up rear security for the safe withdrawal of the patrol. By his daring initiative, inspiring leadership and outstanding courage, Corporal Lazaro served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.