The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Frank A. Peterlin, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with U.S. Navy Seabee Team 1104, at Dong Xoai, Republic of Vietnam, on 10 June 1965. Shortly before midnight on the preceding night, the compound which Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin’s team was assisting to construct came under intense mortar, machine gun, heavy weapons and small arms fire from an estimated Viet Cong reinforced regiment. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin quickly went to a position on the berm surrounding the compound and for three hours exposed himself to hostile fire while firing at the enemy. During a massive Viet Cong attack with flame throwers, hand grenades and small arms fire, supported by mortar, machine gun, and heavy weapons fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin, at close range, shot a Viet Cong carrying a flame thrower. Shortly afterwards, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin was knocked down by an explosion and wounded by a bullet through his right foot. Despite his wound, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin successfully evaded the Viet Cong forces which had overrun the compound and was able to conceal himself from the enemy for more than a day before being rescued. His coolness and effectiveness under fire were a constant encouragement to those about him. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peterlin’s courageous action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.