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Submitted: 8/17/13 • Approved: 8/22/13 • Last Updated: 8/25/13 • R919014-G0-S3
Arkansas
LANCE CORPORAL US Marine Corps
Vietnam
December 24,1950 - September 15,1969
Silver Star
Purple Heart
Killed in Action
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal Richard W Sherrill (MCSN: 2406081), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry & intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with Combined Action Platoon 1-3-9, III Marine Amphibious Force in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the morning of 13 September 1969, a battalion of the 21st North Vietnamese Army Regiment, utilizing mortars, automatic weapons, & small arms, attacked the village of An Phong in Quang Ngai Province, which was defended by Combined Action Platoon 1-3-9. In an effort to pinpoint the location of the enemy command post located within the village, Lance Corporal Sherrill fearlessly led a reconnaissance patrol consisting of Marines & Popular Forces soldiers into the enemy-controlled section of the village. Completely disregarding his own safety, he maneuvered to within twenty-five meters of a hut in which the leaders of the hostile unit were discussing their battle plans. Alertly observing a North Vietnamese sentry preparing to fire on his comrades, Lance Corporal Sherrill quickly killed the hostile soldier & ordered his men to withdraw while he provided covering fire. Although greatly outnumbered, he valiantly fought on in an attempt to prevent the hostile unit, which was now aware of the Marines' presence, from cutting off his companions' avenue of escape, but, while engaged in this selfless task, he was mortally wounded. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit & unselfish concern for the welfare of his comrades, Lance Corporal Sherrill earned the respect & admiration of all who observed him & upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps & of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Action Date: September 13, 1969
Contributed on 8/17/13 by bill060
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Record #: 919014