The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Leon B. Andrews (MCSN: 317525), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 17 September 1944. Assuming command after his platoon leader, platoon sergeant and all but three of his squad became casualties, Corporal Andrews kept the remnant of his own and the adjoining squad on the line. While attempting to knock out a Japanese pillbox, he led in the assault, giving encouragement to his men and, although his helmet was pierced by an enemy bullet during the fire fight, continued to advance and contributed to the success of his squad in neutralizing the hostile strong point. His courage, leadership, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.