The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

PFC DON HINSON

United States Marine Corps

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

    " The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Don Hinson, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 December 1968, Company K was conducting a search and destroy operation near An Hoa in Quang Nam Province when the Marines were engaged by a large force occupying well-concealed positions and sustained several casualties. Although seriously wounded in the initial moments of the fire fight, Private First Class Hinson fearlessly exposed himself to the heavy volume of hostile automatic weapons fire in order to deliver accurate suppressive fire upon the enemy, thereby enabling his platoon to gain fire superiority. Continuing his determined efforts, he resolutely remained in his dangerously exposed position, ignoring the hostile rounds impacting near him, as he fired on the enemy emplacements until he succumbed to his wounds. His daring initiative and heroic efforts inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Hinson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."