The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Paul F. Tersteege (MCSN: 1532700), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with Company D, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 24 January 1969, Company D was conducting a search and destroy operation in the Dodge City area of Quang Nam Province when the lead element sustained several casualties as it came under a heavy volume of automatic and small arms fire from a North Vietnamese Army unit occupying well-concealed emplacements. Observing one of his wounded Marines fall in an area dangerously exposed to the intense hostile fire, Staff Sergeant Tersteege reacted instantly and was running across the dangerous terrain toward the injured Marine when he received a serious leg wound. Recovering quickly, he ignored his painful injury and resolutely continued to move through the fire-swept rice paddy toward the casualty. While engaged in this selfless mission, he was mortally wounded by the enemy fire. By his courage, bold initiative and unfaltering devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Tersteege inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.