The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John Suarez (MCSN: 2427816), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 25 November 1968, Private First Class Suarez’ platoon was engaged in patrol activities near Landing Zone WINCHESTER in Quang Tri Province. While the lead squad was crossing a newly constructed landing zone, a command detonated mine and intense rocket-propelled grenade and was fire from a well-concealed North Vietnamese Army force wounded the four lead Marines and forced the remainder of the patrol to seek cover in the nearby wooded area. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Private First Class Suarez unhesitatingly left his covered position and moved forward to the edge of the clearing with a Corpsman. Observing that the casualties were lying in the open, dangerously exposed to hostile fire, he fearlessly moved across the fire-swept terrain and skillfully delivered fire with his M-79 grenade launcher while simultaneously assisting the Corpsmen in pulling one injured man to a covered position. Undaunted by the increased intensity of the North Vietnamese fire, Private First Class Suarez bravely moved across the extremely hazardous area a second and then a third time, boldly delivering highly suppressive fire with his grenade launcher while assisting in moving the two remaining casualties to positions of relative safety. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of three of his fellow Marines. By his courage, daring initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Private First Class Suarez upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.