The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Charles H. Schaefer (MCSN: 0-105643), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Commander with Headquarters Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours of 24 August 1969, a hill occupied by the Division Radio Relay Station came under a vicious ground attack by hostile sappers, three of whom under the cover of darkness were able to breach a sector of the defensive perimeter manned by First Lieutenant Schaefer’s platoon. During the ensuing fierce engagement, the penetrators leaped into an unused bunker and First Lieutenant Schaefer, with complete disregard for his own safety, rushed across the fire-swept terrain to direct grenade launcher fire with pinpoint accuracy against the emplacement, then, moving from one Marine position to another, pointed out targets and shouted encouragement to his men as they engaged in a vigorous defense of the perimeter. Hearing a wounded enemy soldier crying out in pain, he boldly braved the intense fire to apprehend the man and, as he was crossing the open area, was mortally wounded by hostile automatic weapons fire. Inspired by his repeatedly demonstrated fearlessness and responding to his instructions, the platoon delivered accurate suppressive fire on the determined attackers and, inflicting heavy casualties, successfully repulsed the assault. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unfaltering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, First Lieutenant Schaefer contributed significantly to the defeat of the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.