The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Richard Kirk Gillingham (MCSN: 2118093), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with operations against enemy forces while serving as a Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 May 1967. While on a search and destroy operation in Quang Tri Province, Corporal Gillingham’s squad was taken under heavy small arms and automatic weapons fire. In the initial burst of fire, one of his men was seriously wounded and unable to move from his exposed position. With complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Gillingham rushed into the open terrain to administer aid to the fallen Marine, who was twenty meters away. Although wounded three times, he courageously persisted in his efforts until he had moved his wounded fellow Marine to a secure position. While heroically attempting to return to his squad, he succumbed to his grievous wounds. By his outstanding courage, exceptional fortitude and valiant fighting spirit, Corporal Gillingham served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.