The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major George S. Buck (MCSN: 0-6891), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Commanding Officer of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED SEVENTEEN (VMF-217), attached to the U.S.S. WASP, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Tokyo Bay, Japan on 17 February 1945. Undaunted by intense antiaircraft fire and aerial opposition, Major Buck led his squadron in a low-level strafing attack over a major enemy airfield to inflict extensive and costly damage on the Japanese. His initiative, airmanship and devotion to duty throughout this hazardous operation were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.