THE WALL OF FACES

Dear Cpl Stephen Irvin, Thank you for your service an Antitank Assaultman. Saying thank you isn't enough, but it is from the heart. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

SEMPER FI

Stephen L. Irvin
Date of death: KIA
Home of record: Columbia Missouri
Status: KIA

AWARDS AND 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 Corporal Stephen L. Irvin (MCSN: 2305659), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rocket Squad Leader with Company H, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 10 September 1967. During Operation SWIFT Corporal Irvin's platoon came under intense automatic weapons and small arms fire from a solidly entrenched, numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force. Corporal Irvin fearlessly moved about the fire-swept battlefield directing deadly rocket fire into the fortified enemy positions, accounting for the silencing of at least one enemy machine gun position. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued his aggressive actions until his ordnance was totally expended. Upon depletion of his ammunition, he turned to aid his fallen comrades. He exposed himself to intense enemy fire in the open rice paddy while dragging wounded Marines to covered positions on two occasions. On his third evacuation trip across the fire-swept ride paddy, he was mortally wounded. By his bold initiative, dauntless courage and indomitable fighting spirit, Corporal Irvin reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Action Date: September 10, 1967

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Corporal

Company: Company H

Battalion: 2d Battalion

Regiment: 5th Marines

Division: 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Steve was my favorite cousin on my father's side of the Cozart family. He used to spend a week or more with my family at our farm near Bronson, Kansas.

I've visited Steve at The Wall twice and it brought me to tears both times.

we can never thank you enough. i am proud to be a part of your family.