The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Russell D. Johnson (MCSN: 448495), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Acting Leader of a Rifle Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 14 March 1945. Cool and aggressive at all times, Corporal Johnson exposed himself to hostile small-arms and mortar fire to direct the advance of his platoon to its objective. Although wounded during the advance, he refused to be evacuated and continued to direct the efforts of his unit until the objective was secured and the platoon reorganized. His outstanding leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.