The President of the United State takes pride in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL

posthumously to

FIRST LIEUTENANT SERGE B. SIMMONS

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS RESERVE

for services as set forth in the following

CITATION

"For meritorious service in connection with combat operations against

the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as a Platoon

Commander with Company A, First Battalion, First Marine Division from 10

May to 3 November 1969.  Throughout this period, first Lieutenant Simmons

performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional

manner.  Displaying an exceptional knowledge of infantry tactics and the

employment of supporting arms; he boldly led his platoon in combat

against hostile forces and was instrumental in inflicting numerous

casualties upon the enemy.  On 26 July 1969, First Lieutenant Simmons'

platoon came under intense small arms automatic weapons and mortar fire

from a hostile force.  Completely disregarding his own safety, he

fearlessly exposed himself to the hostile fire as he ably directed the

employment of supporting tanks and led an assault which disrupted the

enemy attack and killed several hostile soldiers.  constantly concerned

with the combat readiness of his unit, he tirelessly trained his men and

quickly molded them into an aggressive fighting unit capable of

accomplishing all assigned tasks.  First Lieutenant Simmons'courage,

superior tactical ability, and steadfast devotion to duty were an

inspiration to all who served with him and were in keeping with the

highest tradions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

FOR THE PRESIDENT

(signature)

H.W. BUSE JR.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL, U.S. MARINE CORPS

COMMANDING GENERAL, FLEET MARINE FORCE PACIFIC