The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Mark F. Powers (MCSN: 2428638), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gun Team Leader with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 February 1969, Company K was advancing up the steep slope of Hill 718 in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of mortar, automatic weapons, and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a platoon-sized enemy force occupying a hilltop defensive position. Completely disregarding his own safety, Lance Corporal Powers rushed across the fire-swept terrain and, obtaining a machine gun from a wounded Marine, maneuvered to a forward area and delivered accurate suppressive fire which provided the necessary cover to allow his comrades to move into an assault position and attack the enemy emplacements. During the ensuing fire fight, Lance Corporal Powers was mortally wounded by hostile fire. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the defeat of the hostile force. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Powers upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in service of his country.