The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the SILVER STAR Posthumously to [then Hospitalman] (NSN: B-204557)

       HOSPITAL CORPSMAN 3RD CLASS ALLEN E. GROSHONG

    

                 UNITED STATES NAVY

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Vietnam, on 8 April 1968. During a search and destroy operation near Hill 504 in Quang Tri Province, Petty Officer Groshong's platoon became heavily engaged with a North Vietnamese force which was employing command-detonated mines, grenades, automatic weapons, and small arms. While assaulting the hostile position, the platoon sustained several casualties, and its right flank was pinned down near the enemy. Unhesitatingly moving to the side of the casualties, Petty Officer Groshong commenced treating their wounds. Although painfully wounded while crawling across the fire-swept terrain to assist several casualties lying in an exposed area, he continued to advance until he reached the wounded men. Disregarding his own safety, Petty Officer Groshong resolutely remained in the exposed position, treating and comforting the casualties until he was mortally wounded by continuing fire. His heroic actions inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of several of his comrades. By his extraordinary courage, resolute determination, and selfless devotion to duty, Petty Officer Groshong upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

                                  For the President, T. H. Moorer

                                   

                                     Admiral, United States Navy

                                      Chief of Naval Operations

CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS 

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20550-1000

              Echo Company 2/1, 1968

Allen E. Groshong