The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Daniel Lee Riely (MCSN: 2192647), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 May 1967. During Operation UNION, Corporal Riley’s platoon was serving as lead element for his company when the unit came under heavy attack from an entrenched North Vietnamese Army force. In the ensuing six-hour battle, one of his men was wounded and unable to move to cover. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Riely unhesitatingly ran to the Marine and carried him across seventy-five meters of fire-swept terrain to a safe area. Returning to his platoon, he then proceeded to assist in the evacuation of thirty-five wounded Marines from another company. Upon learning that his platoon leader had been wounded and that the platoon sergeant was absent, Corporal Riely assumed command of the unit and immediately established effective control over the various squads. Skillfully deploying his troops to effectively distribute their fire on the enemy positions, he then repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to deliver accurate fire with his M-79 grenade launcher against an enemy machine gun firing upon his platoon’s position. When darkness fell, he maneuvered his platoon to the company lines where he immediately attended to matters of re-supply and reorganization. Displaying sound judgment and outstanding tactical skill, he positioned his men in the most commanding locations available. During the night when the enemy launched a fierce, human wave assault accompanied by intense mortar and machine gun fire, Corporal Riely braved hostile fire as he moved among his men to encourage them and direct their fire. Operating his grenade launcher with outstanding accuracy, he personally accounted for three enemy killed during the encounter. His inspiring and courageous leadership provided the impetus which subsequently enabled his platoon to repel the enemy attack. By his brave initiative, exceptional professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Riely contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.