The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Edward R. Reeves (MCSN: 2506989), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company I, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 27 June 1969, during Operation UTAH MESA, Company I was occupying a night defensive position in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under an intense ground attack from approximately three companies of North Vietnamese Army soldiers employing small arms, automatic weapons, and rocket-propelled grenades. Just prior to the attack, Lance Corporal Reeves was preparing to lead his night ambush team back to the company perimeter when enemy movement was detected nearby. Instructing his men to hold their fire, he initiated the ambush when a large hostile force moved into firing range. During the ensuing fire fight, he was fearlessly maneuvering from one position to another across the fire-swept terrain to direct the efforts of his men when he saw an enemy soldier rushing the ambush site. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Reeves utilized his M-79 grenade launcher as a club and killed the hostile soldier. While returning to his position, he was seriously wounded, yet he steadfastly continued directing the fire of his team members until he was medically evacuated. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Lance Corporal Reeves upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.