The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

1stSgt CHESTER R. PAVEY

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 First Sergeant Chester R. Pavey, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Weapons Platoon Commander with Company I, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division in Vietnam on 25 March 1967. During a search and clear operation in Quang Tri Province, First Sergeant (then Gunnery Sergeant) Pavey's company had completed an extensive search of An Hoa Village and established a temporary defensive position when it came under intense enemy mortar fire. With full knowledge of the hazards involved and with complete disregard for his own safety, he exposed himself on countless occasions to the incoming fire. His quick and effective actions were responsible for establishing effective counter mortar fire from his 60-mm. mortar section. An enemy mortar round exploded near First Sergeant Pavey, knocking him to the ground. Undaunted, he scrambled to his feet to continue his mission when a second Viet Cong mortar explosion mortally wounded him. Moments later, the enemy mortar positions were silenced by the Marines' effective counter mortar fire a direct result of First Sergeant Pavey's accurate calculations. His heroic and daring actions throughout were instrumental in repulsing the vicious enemy assault and were an inspiration to all who observed him. First Sergeant Pavey's exceptional professional skill, fearless initiative and unwavering devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."