The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Ira Donald Miller (MCSN: 0-39611), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader in Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 21 May 1945. Leading his platoon in a bitter assault against a strong enemy position deeply entrenched on a ridge near Sugar Loaf Hill, Second Lieutenant Miller repeatedly exposed himself to the shattering artillery, mortar and small-arms barrages to locate targets and direct the accurate rifle fire of his men and, by maintaining steady control over his troops, inspired them to seize their objective in the face of heavy odds. Although killed while reorganizing his platoon on the crest of the hill, Second Lieutenant Miller, by his courageous leadership, marked tactical ability and unselfish devotion to duty, had aided materially in substantially furthering the advance of his battalion, thereby reflecting the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.