The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert A. Valvik (MCSN: 2076561), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Guide with Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 1 February 1968, Corporal Valvik’s platoon was entering the City of Hue when the Marines suddenly came under intense enemy automatic weapons, mortar and anti-tank rocket fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he exposed himself to the hostile fire and began directing the delivery of machine gun fire upon the enemy positions. On two separate occasions, when members of the machine gun team were wounded, he ignored the hostile fire around him and pulled the wounded Marines to relatively safe position. Observing a grenadier fall wounded, he fearlessly ran to the side of the injured man and, assisted by a Corpsman, moved the casualty to a covered position. Seizing the grenadier’s weapon, Corporal Valvik began delivering a heavy volume of M-79 grenade launcher fire into the enemy positions. Wounded in the arm, he paused momentarily to apply a battle dressing and continued firing. Suddenly, n enemy rocket exploded nearby, wounding him in both legs. Although he attempted to return to his position after treating his injuries, he was restrained and subsequently evacuated. His bold initiative and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Valvik upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.