The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Robert E. Beard (MCSN: 486290), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Marianas Group, on 17 June 1944. Observing several members of his squad in imminent peril of losing their lives under violent enemy infantry opposition while attacking a hostile tank with anti-tank grenades, Private First Class Beard unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense fire and, engaging the enemy with his automatic weapon, single-handedly wiped out many of the Japanese before he was mortally wounded. By his heroic fighting spirit and courageous disregard for personal safety, Private First Class Beard enabled his squad to complete the destruction of the enemy tank which was endangering their position, and his valiant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.