THE WALL OF FACES

Edward D. Larson

Silver Star
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS
DURING Vietnam War
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: Private First Class
Battalion: 1st Battalion
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF
GENERAL ORDERS:

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward D. Larson (MCSN: 2138412), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Automatic Rifleman with the First Platoon, Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 September 1966. During Operation DECKHOUSE IV in the vicinity of the Thach Han River, the company was assaulting its objective when Private First Class Larson's platoon came under heavy fire from the front and flanks, incurring numerous casualties. As the platoon continued to press hard to retain the momentum of its attack, he requested permission to move forward and evacuate the wounded who had fallen and lay exposed to withering automatic weapons and sniper fire. Enlisting the aid of two other Marines and laying down covering fire with his automatic rifle, Private First Class Larson heroically led his men through heavy enemy fire and effected a speedy evacuation of three wounded comrades. His initiative and courageous leadership saved the lives of the three men and served to inspire the other members of his platoon. Private First Class Larson's bravery and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.

Ed,
For years I wanted to reach out to your family and let them know I was there for you. That day when both of us were wounded on September 21, 1966, on that opperation we called Three Gates To Hell. I have tried to find your family members but I haven't been lucky at all and recently found this site. I hope in the near future someone in your family reads this while I'm still alive so I can tell them thing only we new. The way you always s lo out for your brothers, especially me when you came back from a week end of leave while we were in California. Our birthdays being on the same day, however you were older than I. I will never forget how you celebrated your birthday with I assume family or friends on that week end of your birthday and you returned with a hugh piece of cake for me knowing it was my birth day date as well. I would love to speak with someone in your family and let them no I was there for you in the end. You were a special Marine and friend and you'll always be in my memory. Miss you Brother.
Semper Fi

Photo is Ed’s 1963 high school senior class picture. The picture was found and provided by Herb Reckinger Jr. of Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Thank you Herb!

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Ed.

Semper Fi, Marine.

Dear PFC Edward David Larson, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter