Mike & H&S Companies 

Third Battalion, Fifth Marines

Veterans of the Vietnam War

In the name of the President of the United States, the Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific takes pleasure in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL to

FIRST LIEUTENANT BYRON EDWARD HILL

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following

    CITATION:

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Artillery Forward Observer with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam.  On 13 May 1967, during Operation Union, the defensive positions of Company M came under intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire.  Unhesitatingly exposing himself to heavy enemy fire, First Lieutenant HILL maneuvered to an exposed vantage point to adjust artillery fire against the enemy's positions and remained in this unprotected position for over two hours, skillfully directing and adjusting supporting arms fire until the enemy fire was silenced.  Upon learning that the platoon commander, platoon sergeant and guide of the Second Platoon had been seriously wounded, he assumed command of the unit and moved across 200 meters of fire swept terrain to the platoon's location.  Demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical ability, First Lieutenant HILL reorganized the unit, encouraged his men and aggressively led the platoon.  Later in the afternoon, he was recalled to the command post where he immediately coordinated and supervised the planning of night defensive fires for the company's position. In the early morning hours 14 May 1967, the enemy launched an intense machine gun and mortar attack, closely followed by a coordinated infantry assault against the company's position. With complete disregard for his own safety, he moved to an exposed vantage point and for over two hours, calmly directed artillery fire on the hostile force, often within ninety meters of the company's lines.  As the attack subsided, First Lieutenant HILL relentlessly pursued the fleeing enemy with intense supporting arms fire.  In large measure due to his determined efforts and superior professional ability, Company M accounted for over 150 enemy confirmed killed.  By his steadfast courage, exceptional professionalism and selfless devotion to duty, First Lieutenant HILL was an inspiration to all who served with him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

FOR THE PRESIDENT

V. H. KRULAK

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U. S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING

TEMPORARY CITATION