The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Gary Ray Townsend (MCSN: 2424290), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with as a Fire Team Leader with Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 30 September 1968, during Operation MAMELUKE THRUST, elements of Company F were advancing through a densely wooded tree line near An Hoa in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force occupying fortified emplacements. Alertly detecting a reinforced bunker that was the primary source of the enemy fire, Lance Corporal Townsend rapidly pinpointed the firing positions and, with complete disregard for his own safety, unhesitatingly moved through the fire-swept area until he was only ten meters in front of the position’s aperture. Fearlessly exposing himself to the devastating hostile fire, he began delivering automatic weapons fire directly into the bunker, enabling the other members of his squad to move forward and attack the hostile enemy emplacement. Continuing his determined efforts, he was assisting his comrades in destroying the bunker with hand grenades when he was mortally wounded. His timely and heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his unit’s subsequent seizure of the enemy position. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Townsend upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.