The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Herbert Underhill (MCSN: 597136), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Artillery Forward Observer with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. While participating in a company search and clear mission on 28 March 1966, during Operation INDIANA in Quang Ngai Province, Staff Sergeant Underhill was located with the Command Group of Company C when the lead platoon became engaged with elements of a battalion size force of Viet Cong. In the initial moments of the fire fight, the platoon suffered heavy casualties and its advance was temporarily halted. As Staff Sergeant Underhill requested an artillery fire mission in order to relieve the pressure on the beleaguered Marines, the command group came under intense fire, mortally wounding his radioman. Unhesitatingly, he rushed to his companion’s position, administered first aid and moved him to a covered position. Then, completely disregarding the intensity of the enemy fire around him, he calmly began an assault of a key terrain feature, Staff Sergeant Underhill courageously exposed himself to heavy enemy mortar and machine gun fire to direct preparatory fires on the objective. For four consecutive hours, he continuously exposed himself to intense fire, effectively calling in and skillfully adjusting supporting fires which resulted in heavy enemy casualties and the destruction of Viet Cong fortifications and emplacements. Demonstrating exceptional bravery despite grave personal risk, Staff Sergeant Underhill contributed materially to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and inspired all who observed him. By his bold initiative, daring actions and uncommon devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Underhill upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.