The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Phillip John Wajda (MCSN: 2381165), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Tactical Air Controller with Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 19 September 1968, while conducting a search and destroy operation south of DaNang, Company F became heavily engaged with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force and sustained numerous casualties. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Lance Corporal Wajda fearlessly accompanied his Commanding Officer to within twenty-five meters of the enemy positions and skillfully directed the fire of supporting armed UH-1E helicopter gunships. Alertly observing two Marines lying wounded in an open area approximately ten meters from the North Vietnamese, he unhesitatingly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to his comrades’ position and commenced to administer first aid. Completely disregarding his own safety, he remained in the hazardous area and was treating one of his companions when he was fatally wounded by enemy small arms fire. His heroic actions and selfless concern for the welfare of his comrades was responsible for two Marines receiving vitally needed medical attention. By his courage, resolute determination and unwavering devotion to duty, Lance Corporal Wajda inspired all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.