The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Joseph H. Sullivan (MCSN: 1851528), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader of a Combined Action Platoon, Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, near Binh Song, Vietnam, on 15 September 1966. When the defensive perimeter came under attack by heavy small arms, automatic weapons and accurate rifle grenade fire from a superior Viet Cong force of approximately company size, Staff Sergeant Sullivan was seriously wounded by the initial fire. Although painfully wounded, he, without hesitation moved immediately to get his squad in the trenches. With full knowledge of the hazards involved and complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to search out each member of his squad to determine the extent of their injuries. Finding only the squad radio operator alive, Staff Sergeant Sullivan directed him to radio for illumination, defensive fire and reinforcements and to hold his sector of the perimeter at all costs. He then positioned himself directly in the path of the Viet Cong who were entering the perimeter in squad sized groups. As the attack progressed and the enemy fire increased in volume and accuracy, Staff Sergeant Sullivan continued to set an example of courage and calmness until he fell mortally wounded by a hail of small arms fire. By his daring initiative and valiant fighting spirit, he served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially in repulsing the Viet Cong from the position. His marked courage, resolute leadership and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.