Lance Corporal Emrick, Steven E. USMC Bronze Star Medal BRONZE STAR MEDAL Lance Corporal Steven E Emrick United States Marine Corps For heroic achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Radio Operator with Third Force Reconnaissance Company, Third Reconnaissance Battalion, Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 February 1968, Corporal Emrick's patrol ambushed and killed seven North Vietnamese soldiers southeast of Con Thien. Shortly thereafter, the Marines came under heavy small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire from an estimate two companies of North Vietnamese troops. With exceptional composure, Corporal Emrick maintained communications with higher headquarters, reporting enemy strength and positions and providing directions for an evacuation helicopter. Fearlessly exposing himself to intense enemy fire, he directed and adjusted artillery fires and air support which enabled the patrol to maneuver to the landing zone and form a defensive perimeter. As he was maintaining communications with the extraction helicopter which was unable to land because of heavy ground fire, Corporal Emrick was critically wounded by a burst of of automatic weapons fire. After directing his companions to remove his radio and maintain communications, he succumbed to his wounds. Corporal Emrick's resolute courage, unfaltering determination, and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.