The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the


SILVER STAR MEDAL to

2ndLt JOHN G. BOGART

United States Marine Corps

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

    " The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John G. Bogart, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Platoon Commander of the 106-mm. Rifle Platoon, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 17 June 1969, Second Lieutenant Bogart's platoon and other elements of the Third Battalion were occupying a defensive position near Gio Linh in Quang Tri Province when the Marines were attacked by a North Vietnamese Army company employing mortars, automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades. Rapidly assessing the situation, Second Lieutenant Bogart quickly deployed his men to effective firing positions, thereby enabling them to gain fire superiority over the enemy force and preventing casualties. On two occasions, he maneuvered elements of his section across the fire-swept terrain to the point of heaviest contact, and boldly shouting words of encouragement to his men, directed their accurate fire upon the advancing enemy soldiers. Repeatedly exposing himself to the intense hostile fire, he fearlessly maneuvered about the hazardous area as he supervised the efforts of his Marines until the hostile attack was repulsed. His bold initiative and resolute determination inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in his platoon's accounting for sixteen North Vietnamese soldier's killed. By his courage, aggressive leadership and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, Second Lieutenant Bogart upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."