The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Michael Robert Ross (MCSN: 0-88020), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of Battery D, Second Battalion, Twelfth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 13 May 1969, Battery D was occupying a defensive position at Fire Support Base Erskine in Quang Tri Province and was preparing for a fire mission when a flash fire started in an artillery emplacement. Reacting instantly, Captain Ross ordered his men to evacuate the immediate area and then unhesitatingly rushed toward the blaze in an attempt to extinguish the fire. Alertly observing that the flames were moving rapidly toward the ready pit, which contained several high explosive artillery rounds, he fearlessly entered the pit and although fully aware of the dangers involved, quickly attempted to smother the fire before it could reach the munitions. While Captain Ross was resolutely engaged in this hazardous task, the artillery rounds exploded and he was mortally wounded. His heroic and timely actions inspired all who observed him and were responsible for the majority of his men escaping injury from the explosion. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Captain Ross upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.