For extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours on 2 February 1968, the Cam Lo District Headquarters came under heavy artillery, mortar and recoilless rifle fire followed by a well-coordinated ground attack by a numerically superior enemy force. Although bleeding profusely from multiple fragmentation wounds to his arms and legs and temporarily rendered unconscious from the explosion of an enemy rocket round during the initial moments of the attack, Corporal Russell refused immediate medical attention for himself in order to control and direct the fire of his men against the assaulting force. Displaying exceptional courage and bold initiative, he completely ignored the danger to his life as he repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire in order to pinpoint enemy positions for his unit and deliver effective rifle fire against the attackers. Exhibiting outstanding leadership and composure during the five-hour engagement, he steadfastly refused medical aid and evacuation for himself and continued to move throughout the fire swept-swept area, skillfully directing the fire of his squad and encouraging his men. Although the enemy penetrated a portion of the compound's eastern perimeter which threatened the Marine defenses and reinforcements were required to prevent the attackers from overrunning the northern perimeter, Corporal Russell ably directed his squad members to counter the hostile force and as a result, forced the enemy to break contact and withdraw, undoubtedly preventing his sector of the perimeter from being penetrated. His dauntless courage and bold initiative inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in repulsing the attackers, accounting for numerous casualties and the capture of thirty eight soldiers and confiscation of numerous weapons and items of equipment. By his aggressive fighting spirit, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, Corporal Russell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.