The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jerry Thomas Tillery (MCSN: 2174609), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Fifth Marine Division (Reinforced), FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 February 1968. During Operation Hue City, Private Tillery’s company was assaulting an enemy force entrenched in city’s treasury building when the intensity of hostile small-arms, automatic weapons, and B-40 rocket fire temporarily halted his unit’s advance. Realizing the necessity of suppressing the enemy fire, he led his antitank assault squad onto the roof of a building which overlooked the company’s objective. As his squad moved to the roof, they were taken under intense enemy fire which seriously wounded two of his men. Undaunted by the vicious hostile fire, he courageously carried his injured companions to a protected area and immediately returned to his exposed position on the roof and placed accurate rocket fire on the enemy. Steadfastly maintaining his position despite the heavy enemy fire, Private Tillery continued to fire his 3.5 inch rocket launcher and Light Antitank Assault Weapons on the enemy, destroying seven emplacements and causing numerous enemy casualties. By his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Private Tillery was instrumental in the success of his unit, reflecting great credit upon the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.