The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal Ralph Glover Victor (MCSN: 2131887), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Scout with Company C, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. Shortly after midnight on 16 June 1966, Lance Corporal Victor’s eighteen man patrol was occupying an observation post deep within enemy controlled territory in the vicinity of Chi Tu, Quang Tin Province, when a Viet Cong force of estimated battalion size crept close to the Marines’ position and, on a predetermined signal, launched a vicious attack with small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire. Although knocked to the ground and painfully wounded in both legs by an exploding hand grenade, Lance Corporal Victor reacted swiftly and rapidly fired his rifle into the advancing Viet Cong force, helping to stop the initial assault. Persistently refusing medical treatment until the more seriously wounded had been cared for, he continued to inflict casualties among the attackers. While gallantly holding his position as the Viet Cong attack gained momentum, he sustained additional wounds in his back from another hand grenade. No longer able to stand alone, he leaned against a rock and, in full view of the enemy, continued to fire with keen marksmanship. After submitting temporarily to emergency medical treatment, he bravely dragged himself back to his fighting position. Throughout the night, he ignored his own suffering and assisted in defending his sector of the perimeter against the savage enemy onslaught. His heroism and determination were instrumental in the successful defense of the position, and undoubtedly helped prevent the surviving platoon members from being killed or captured by the numerically superior enemy. Lance Corporal Victor’s extraordinary courage, resolute fighting spirit and selfless dedication to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.