Mike & H&S Companies 

Third Battalion, Fifth Marines

Veterans of the Vietnam War

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS OWEN WHITE, JR.

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

          For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company M, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 11 Septemeber 1968, Company M was participating in Operation Mameluke Thrust in Quang Nam Province when the Marines came under a heavy volume of automatic weapons, small arms and antitank rocket fire from a large North Vietnamese Army force occupying fortified positions and sustained numerous casualties. Reacting instantly, Private First Class White commenced delivering a heavy volume of fire upon the hostile bunkers and, maneuvering across the fire-swept terrain to the side of a wounded Marine, carried him to a covered position. Disregarding his own safety, he again maneuvered across the hazardous area and, after evacuating another casualty, skillfully administering first aid to his two wounded comrades. Resolutely continuing his determined efforts, he was assisting a third seriously injured man when he was mortally wounded by the intense hostile fire. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind inspired all who served with him and were instrumental in saving the lives of two Marines. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class White upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

For the President,

H. W. BUSE, JR.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U.S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC