Lieutenant Capodanno, Vincent R. Navy Bronze Star Medal The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL (posthumously) to LIEUTENANT VINCENT R. CAPODANNO CHAPLAIN CORPS UNITED STATES NAVAL RESERVE for service as set forth in the following CITATION: For heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy while serving as Chaplain, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, United States Marine Forces in the Republic of Vietnam from May to December 1966. Lieutenant Capodanno participated in Operations MOBILE, FRANKLIN, FRESNO, GOLDEN FLEECE 7-1, and RIO BLANCO. He repeatedly and purposely accompanied those forces most likely to experience the greatest enemy contact. Frequently, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense enemy fire as he moved across open areas to assist Marines who needed his help and prayer. On more than one occasion, Lieutenant Capodanno administered first aid while under fire and moved wounded Marines to secure areas to comfort them until medical assistance could be obtained. During Operation RIO BLANCO, with complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Capodanno, repeatedly exposed himself while he moved throughout the positions, encouraging and inspiring the men during intense enemy fire. He inspired confidence in the Marines and contributed immeasurably to the successful accomplishment of the unit's mission. In addition to his performance on the battlefield, Lieutenant Capodanno served as an example and loyal friend to the officers and men of the battalion. He worked long into the night to counsel and serve the men, write to their parents, and assist them with their problems. His fair, but firm, approach to the problems common to a combat area won the deep respect of the battalion personnel. Lieutenant Capodanno's courageous actions, initiative, and complete dedication to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized. For the President, C. C. Krulak Commandant of the Marine Corps