The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Robert Carroll Prewitt (MCSN: 0-75471), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 4 and 5 March 1966, during Operation UTAH in Quang Nhai Province, Captain Prewitt’s Company was attached to the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines and assigned the mission to provide security for a helicopter which was disabled in the Battalion landing zone. Throughout the day, the enemy repeatedly delivered fire into the landing zone, persisting in an attempt to capture the helicopter. In the late afternoon, helicopters which attempted to land with sorely needed ammunition were driven off by the intense enemy fire. In a desperate attempt, two aircraft made low, swift runs over the Company position, pushing out ammunition as they swept by. Despite their precautions, the lead helicopter received seventeen hits from enemy fire during the daring flight. As Captain Prewitt and his men staunchly held their position during the night, they were subjected to two mortar attacks, one involving sixty-three rounds, and two physical assaults by company size Viet Cong units. Demonstrating firm leadership and fortitude, Captain Prewitt fearlessly moved among his platoons throughout the ordeal, exposing himself to the murderous fire to provide advice and encouragement to his men. The effectiveness of his determined retaliatory action was proved the next morning when the bodies of twenty-six Viet Cong were found in front of the defensive perimeter. It appeared that numerous other casualties had been dragged from the scene. His resolute effort saved the expensive and essential helicopter from falling into enemy hands, and dealt a severe blow to the attacking Viet Cong force. By his exceptional leadership, perseverance under the most trying conditions and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Captain Prewitt upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.