The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Salvatore B. Colombo (MCSN: 508464), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas on 17 June 1944. Fighting with determined aggressiveness during a bitter counterattack launched by the enemy following our assault and subsequent establishment of a beach head on this strategic island, Private First Class Colombo remained steadfast at his machine gun when the right flank of his company was withdrawn in a tactical maneuver and, directing a steady stream of devastating fire at the enemy effectively covered the withdrawal of our force and inflicted numerous casualties upon the Japanese troops before he fell mortally wounded. By his fearless initiative, valiant fighting spirit and resolute fortitude in the face of savage, unceasing opposition, Private First Class Colombo contributed essentially to the success of the action and to the ultimate conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout a period of fierce hostilities was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private First Class Salvatore B. Colombo gallantly gave his live for his country.