SILVER STAR

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
HEADQUARTERS. FLEET MARINE FORCE. PACIFIC
FPO. SAN FRANCISCO. 96602

        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

STAFF SERGEANT BILLY J. BRICKEY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

for service as set forth in the following

    CITATION:

        "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Squad Leader with Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam.   On 22 July 1966, Staff Sergeant BRICKEY's  squad was serving as point for a company column, moving down a wide streambed, when the point fire team was ambushed at close range from enemy positions along the steep banks of the streambed.  The fire team immediately sustained several casualties and was pinned down by heavy and accurate enemy automatic rifle fire.  Maneuvering his remaining teams into positions to neutralize the enemy fire, Staff Sergeant BRICKEY left his place of relative safety to render aid to the wounded Marines.  Continually and with complete disregard for his own safety, he crossed the exposed area under withering enemy fire to carry the wounded to safety.  During one of his rescue attempts, Staff Sergeant BRICKEY was wounded by enemy fire and suffered wounds in his right arm and hand.  Selflessly, he continued to direct fire on the enemy and to care for the wounded until they had all been moved to a safe position.  After routing the enemy, Staff Sergeant BRICKEY directed the remainder of his squad in clearing a zone for the medical evacuation helicopter.  His outstanding leadership and compassion for his fellow Marines inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several of his companions.  By his extraordinary courage, bold initiative, and selfless devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant BRICKEY upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."

FOR THE PRESIDENT,

A. R. KIER

MAJOR GENERAL,  U.  S.  MARINE  CORPS

ACTING

TEMPORARY CITATION