WASHINGTON
CPL - CO L3 - BN 3
MARINE DIVISION - VIETNAM - PH


Silver Star Citation

Richard O. Krogh Date of death: KIA Home of record: Mercer Island Washington Status: KIA AWARDS AND CITATIONS Silver Star Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War.

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Richard O. Krogh (MCSN: 2266195), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator with Company L, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam.

On the night of 26 August 1968, Corporal Krogh was occupying a listening post in front of his company's defensive position near the Rockpile in Quang Tri Province when the Marines came under intense enemy mortar fire. Following the mortar attack, Corporal Krogh alertly observed a reinforced North Vietnamese Army platoon moving toward the Marine perimeter and, after informing his commanding officer of the impending assault, opened fire upon the advancing hostile soldiers, temporarily deterring the enemy attack.

Receiving orders to withdraw from the listening post to the perimeter, he fearlessly moved from his position and was maneuvering toward the company lines when he was seriously wounded by the intense hostile fire. Resolutely continuing his determined efforts despite his painful injuries, he commenced crawling toward the friendly perimeter, and as he boldly hurled his radio to his comrades within the Marine position to deny its use to the enemy, he was again struck by enemy fire and mortally wounded.

His daring initiative and heroic efforts inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in preventing a surprise attack upon his company. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty, Corporal Krogh contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

He gallantly gave his life for his country. Action Date: August 26, 1968 Service: Marine Corps Rank: Corporal Company: Company L Battalion: 3d Battalion Regiment: 3d Marines Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF.