The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert D. Hunter (MCSN: 351261), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Squad Leader of an Assault Platoon in Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 15-16 September 1944. Attacking with his platoon against strong enemy positions defending the north end of the beach, Corporal Hunter led a skillfully planned and executed assault which resulted in the destruction of two enemy pillboxes from which 40-mm. anti-boat and heavy machine gun fire had been inflicting severe damage on friendly landing craft and heavy casualties among personnel on the beach. In eliminating these emplacements he personally delivered devastating rifle and grenade fire, and so disposed and deployed his men that the hostile troops in and around the pill boxes were also destroyed. Having removed this serious threat to the security of the beachhead, he boldly continued the fight and despite a painful head wound sustained when the enemy counter attacked, remained at his post until the assault had been completely repulsed. His exceptional leadership, outstanding courage and valiant fighting spirit in the face of heavy odds reflect great credit upon Corporal Hunter and the United States Naval Service.