The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

Sgt JOHN R. SIBILLY

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 Sergeant John R. Sibilly, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader of the Second Machine Gun Squad, Weapons Platoon, Company I, 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 7 September 1967. Sergeant Sibilly was a member of a relief force which became engaged in neutralizing the effectiveness of an ambush of a re-supply convoy south of Ca Lu, Quang Tri Province. Constantly exposing himself, Sergeant Sibilly aggressively sought out the enemy. Then he vigorously deployed his machine gun squad to direct effective fire into the enemy position. When the company moved forward with a "twin 40" duster in the lead, he moved his squad behind the weapon to cover its flanks. At that time, the fight was being waged at very close range. The duster and supporting infantry came under automatic weapons, small arms fire, and barrages of enemy grenades. He assumed command of the infantry squad and, with his gun squad, personally led a devastating charge into the heart of the enemy, directing the fire of his weapons and successfully shattering the bulk of the enemy force in the woods next to the road. Wounded by an enemy grenade, he continued to encourage his men until he was carried from the field where he succumbed to his mortal wounds. By his outstanding leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and inspiring devotion to duty, Sergeant Sibilly upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."