The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Anthony P. Tokarz (MCSN: 0-89467), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Commander with Company L, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 22 March 1966. At dusk, Company L suddenly encountered extremely intense small arms, machine guns and mortar fire from a well concealed and entrenched Viet Cong battalion near the hamlet of Phuoc Loc. As a result of the vicious initial burst of well coordinated enemy fire the third platoon sustained seven casualties. First Lieutenant Tokarz skillfully directed the fire of his platoon on the enemy position one-hundred and fifty meters to his front, while maneuvering his platoon to a more advantageous position. Hearing the call for help from a wounded Marine lying twenty meters in front of the friendly position yet realizing the risk involved with evacuating a wounded Marine amidst the exploding mortar rounds and treacherous machine gun fire which raked the area, First Lieutenant Tokarz fearlessly ran from his covered position and single-handedly dragged the wounded Marine to safety. Immediately after performing this daring act, First Lieutenant Tokarz was severely wounded by mortar fragments. Refusing treatment and evacuation until all other casualties had received medical aid, he remained in command of his platoon, directing fire and shouting encouragement until he could no longer talk. His extraordinary courage and unfaltering devotion to his men and his mission were exemplary and an inspiration to all who observed him, providing the necessary impetus to overcome the enemy attack. First Lieutenant Tokarz’s exceptional valor, inspiring leadership and unswerving dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.