Service number 1102779
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 Gunnery Sergeant Harold D. Tatum (MCSN: 1102779), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company B, Third Tank Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 September 1967. While participating in Operation KINGFISHER in direct support of the Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, during a sweeping operation, Gunnery Sergeant Tatum's section of tanks came into contact with the lead elements of attacking enemy forces. He unhesitatingly reacted to the situation and positioned his tanks to repel the brunt of the enemy attack, effectively preventing Companies I and L of the Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines from being overrun. In the ensuing battle, Gunnery Sergeant Tatum's tank was penetrated by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade which set off several rounds of white phosphorous ammunition, resulting in an intense fire inside the tank. Disregarding his own personal safety, Gunnery Sergeant Tatum remained inside the burning tank and assisted in the removal of a mortally wounded comrade. As a direct result of his heroic and unselfish actions, Gunnery Sergeant Tatum received severe burns over 40% of his body. Gunnery Sergeant Tatum's initiative, outstanding courage and selfless efforts in behalf of another reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Action Date: September 10, 1967

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Gunnery Sergeant

Company: Company B

Battalion: 3d Tank Battalion

Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Tatum, Harold Dean, GySgt