The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Rex F. Crandall (MCSN: 403089), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island, Mariana Islands. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Crandall rendered valiant service during operations on this strategically important island. On 7 July 1944, despite intense enemy fire from small arms and machine guns he maintained his post steadfastly and by his skill in servicing and firing his artillery piece assisted in destroying a Japanese tank which had inflicted eleven casualties on his section. Mortally wounded during this hazardous action Private First Class Crandall had contributed materially to the success of this vital campaign and his unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Private First Class Rex F. Crandall gallantly gave his live for his country.