The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward Herbert Sherrod (MCSN: 2503409), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Machine Gunner with Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 28 August 1969, while Company K was conducting a search and destroy operation in Quang Nam Province, the lead platoon was pinned down by small arms, automatic weapons, and anti-aircraft fire from North Vietnamese Army soldiers concealed in spider holes and other well-camouflaged emplacements. Realizing the need for immediate action, Private First Class Sherrod boldly maneuvered through the hostile fusillade toward a dangerously exposed vantage point and, delivering devastating fire upon the enemy soldiers, enabled elements of the platoon to resume their advance. Observing a seriously wounded Marine lying helpless in an open area, and determined to save the man from further injury, he boldly crawled across the fire-swept terrain toward his companion. When enemy soldiers became aware of his intent, he became a vulnerable target for their concentrated fire, but skillfully dashing from one covered location to another, attained his objective. After rapidly administering lifesaving first aid, he began to move his companion to a covered location, shielding him from the hostile fire with his own body. Upon encountering a sniper in a fighting hole to his immediate front, he left the casualty in a relatively safe area, dashed across ten meters of open terrain, drawing the sniper, killed him, and destroyed his position. Valiantly braving the rounds impacting in the area, Private First Class Sherrod returned to his wounded companion and, again, shielding him from the hostile fire, assisted him to a secure location. While he was maneuvering the Marine around a small knoll, Private First Class Sherrod was mortally wounded by sniper fire. His heroic actions and dauntless efforts inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Sherrod saved the life of a fellow Marine and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.