The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Dayton D. Cross (MCSN: 294348), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Reconnaissance Company, FOURTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 17 February 1945. Despite heavy artillery and automatic weapons fire, Corporal Cross carried out a reconnaissance mission on the landing beaches and, by gathering valuable data and information contributed materially to saving the lives of others. His indefatigable courage in continuing his mission after enemy fire had caused severe casualties among his team members and his unselfish devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.