SILVER STAR MEDAL to LANCE CORPORAL DENNIS F. SCALICI UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS For service as set forth in the following CITATION: FOR THE
PRESIDENT H. W. BUSE,
JR. LIEUTENANT
GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS COMMANDING
GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting
the
For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire
Team Leader with Company L, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine
Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of
Vietnam. On 6 May 1968, the Third Battalion was conducting a search and
destroy operation south of the Con Thien Combat Base when the lead squad
suddenly came under intense automatic weapons fire from a large North
Vietnamese Army force. Alertly observing an enemy machine gun, Lance
Corporal Scalici fearlessly assaulted the hostile emplacement, delivering a
heavy volume of fire and throwing hand grenades until the North Vietnamese
position was silenced. Disregarding his own safety, he boldly continued to
advance, and seizing he hostile weapon, he utilized it against the enemy
force, enabling five of his comrades to join him. When the Marines again
came under intense automatic weapons fire, he repeatedly exposed himself
while delivering suppressive fire and throwing hand grenades, forcing the
enemy machine gun crew to flee in panic and confusion. Ordered to withdraw
his men, he steadfastly remained behind while providing covering fire,
enabling the Marines to evacuate their casualties and reach the relative
safety of their platoon’s position. His heroic and timely actions 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 in the face of great personal danger, Lance
Corporal Scalici upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of
the United States Naval Service.
