The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Apprentice First Class Loyd Long Aarant (NSN: 8732009), United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Third Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 21 February 1945. The platoon to which Hospital Apprentice First Class Aarant was attached was pinned down by extremely heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire from which they suffered many casualties. Hospital Apprentice First Class Aarant, voluntarily and without regard for his own safety, unhesitatingly went forward through the terrific enemy barrage and administered aid to the wounded. His courageous conduct saved the lives of several of his comrades and was an inspiration to all. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.