The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Orville Harold Hoffman (MCSN: 287153), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group on 8 October 1944. In order to acquaint himself with the terrain over which he was to lead his force and to further the assault operations of his platoon, Sergeant Hoffman, unhesitatingly exposed himself to hostile fire during a dangerous reconnaissance mission. Although mortally wounded by a Japanese sniper, he valiantly refused evacuation until he had given the enemy situation and his own combat orders to his subordinate non-commissioned officer. His exceptional fortitude and unflinching devotion to duty at the risk of his own life reflected great credit upon Sergeant Hoffman and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for is country.