SECOND LIEUTENANT WILLLAM A. PRISH
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS RESERVE

"For meritorious service in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, First Marine Division from 23 May to 2 August 1968. Throughout this period, Second Lieutenant PRISH performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Demonstrating exceptional resourcefulness and initiative, he expeditiously accomplished all assigned tasks and consistently provided his command with outstanding support. Despite a critical shortage of personnel, he skillfully trained and reorganized his platoon into an effective fighting unit which successfully engaged the enemy during numerous combat operations. On 28 May 1968, while participating in Operation Allen Brook south of DaNang, Second Lieutenant PRISH's platoon suddenly came under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from a large, well entrenched North Vietnamese Army force and sustained several casualties. Reacting instantly, Second Lieutenant PRISH unhesitantly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to a position from which he could effectively direct his unit. Disregarding his own safety, he fearlessly moved about the hazardous area, shouting words of encouragement to his men and directing their fire upon the hostile emplacements. Continuing his determined efforts, he ably directed supporting tanks in delivering a heavy volume of suppressive fire, enabling other units to advance and assist his platoon in evacuating the wounded. On 15 June, when Second Lieutenant PRISH's platoon was suddenly ambushed by a large enemy force utilizing automatic weapons and hand grenades, he quickly deployed his men and boldly led them in an aggressive assault through the hostile positions forcing the enemy to flee in panic and confusion. On 2 August, while conducting a combat patrol in heavily mined territory, the lead elements of Second Lieutenant PRISH's platoon alertly observed hostile activity. Immediately deploying his platoon to pursue the enemy force, he commenced maneuvering forward when he was suddenly wounded by an enemy explosive device. Ignoring his painful injuries, he continued to encourage and inspire his men until he was medically evacuated. Second Lieutenant PRISH's initiative, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty throughout inspired all who served with him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service."

Second Lieutenant PRISH is authorized to wear the Combat "V".