The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Edward P. Jasik (MCSN: 557407), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Group Leader in an Assault Rifle Platoon of Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 24 February 1945. With his platoon’s advance held up by heavy enemy machine-gun fire, Private First Class Jasik courageously led his group forward into an advantageous firing position in front of his platoon. When his automatic rifleman was wounded, he promptly took over the weapon and continued to deliver effective fire upon two hostile pillboxes. Although wounded himself, he advanced directly on the pillboxes, firing continuously into their embrasures until all the occupants were killed and the two emplacements destroyed. By his inspiring leadership and courage under fire, Private First Class Jasik enabled his platoon to continue the attack. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.