The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Edward E. Jones, Jr. (MCSN: 0-12557), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of Battery K, Fourth 105-mm. Artillery Battalion, Corps Artillery, Fifth Amphibious Corps, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 15 and 16 June 1944. Under almost continuous heavy enemy artillery fire, Captain Jones maintained his gun battery in efficient operating condition despite severe casualties and material losses. Wounded when enemy fire put all of his guns out of action on 16 June, he reorganized the personnel of his battery to augment and assist the two remaining batteries of his battalion. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty despite his wounds and intense hostile fire reflect the highest credit upon Captain Jones and the United States Naval Service.