The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Wayne William Thompson (MCSN: 1631998), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 27 February 1968, while serving as an Advisor to the Provincial Reconnaissance Unit, in Quang Tin Province. Staff Sergeant Thompson was accompanying his platoon on a reconnaissance in force operation in conjunction with elements of a friendly unit, near the village of Phu Tre, when suddenly the friendly units made contact with a reinforced Viet Cong main force company. Staff Sergeant Thompson immediately deployed his troops and aggressively and dynamically attacked the enemy force. Immediately his elements began receiving heavy automatic weapons, RPG rocket and small arms fire. Displaying extraordinary professionalism, he directed his troops into a dismounted frontal assault against the enemy emplacements. So forceful and devastating was his attack, that he directed and led his men through the enemy defensive perimeter. Once inside the enemy perimeter, he continued to display extraordinary heroism as he aggressively and dynamically moved from one location to another firing his weapon into the enemy fortifications. AT one point, armed with only his personal weapon and a few hand grenades, he led an assault into the heavily-fortified tunnel/trench complex. As he stormed the enemy trenches, an enemy grenade exploded in his path, showering him with shrapnel. Wounded and partially dazed and with utter disregard to his own safety, Staff Sergeant Thompson displayed extraordinary heroism and indomitable courage as he regrouped his force and, exposing himself to the intensive enemy fire, personally led his men in the final assault against the remaining enemy positions. Through his valorous actions, Staff Sergeant Thompson contributed immeasurably in the almost total annihilation of the enemy force and was personally credited with killing five of the insurgents. His gallantry and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.