The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Winston F. Fontaine (MCSN: 334302), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of a Rifle Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, suddenly hit by fire from a hostile grenade launcher as it moved into position to defend a ridge for the night, Sergeant Fontaine skillfully deployed his squad and sought out the positions of the enemy. Wounded and evacuated to an aid station during that attack, he slipped away and returned at dark to his squad position. He then boldly lead his men against the enemy throughout the night. By his courage, daring initiative and unselfish devotion to duty despite painful wounds, Sergeant Fontaine upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.