The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Edward O. Buddy (MCSN: 0-15120), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. While leading his company in a frontal assault on fixed enemy positions at the base of a ridge, First Lieutenant Buddy observed that part of his line on the right flank was sagging and, unhesitatingly crossing the flat, fire-swept terrain to the point of danger, found the platoon without leadership and the squads uncoordinated. Quickly welding the unit into an effective fighting team again, realizing that the resistance to the front had to be neutralized immediately, he skillfully guided tanks to a flanking position where effective fire was brought to bear on the enemy. With great courage, he stood upright as he walked along the line of firing tanks and boldly pointed out targets. Shortly thereafter, as a result of his able leadership and daring, the platoon was able to rush and capture the strong emplacements after which the company continued the attack. By his initiative, courage and unwavering devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Buddy contributed materially to the defeat of the enemy on this strategic stronghold, and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.