The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Harlen C. Rilk (MCSN: 2254415), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Amphibian Tractor Crew Chief with the Third Amphibian Tractor Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced) in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 September 1967. Corporal Rilk was serving in an Amphibian Tractor convoy of 23 vehicles moving from its base camp to a rendezvous point at the commencement of Operation Ballistic Charge. During this move, the lead tractor of the convoy detonated an enemy land mine and was immediately engulfed in flames, becoming immobilized and blocking the trail for the remainder of the convoy. The Company Commander requested a volunteer to assist him in selecting a path around the immobilized tractor for the remainder of the convoy. Corporal Rilk, fully realizing the dangers involved, volunteered at once to assist in the selection of passable ground. After receiving instructions from his Company Commander they proceeded over the selected ground. During this surveillance Corporal Rilk was mortally wounded by an exploding land mine. By his unwavering devotion to duty, outstanding courage and personal disregard for his own safety, he upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.