The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Kirt W. Norton (MCSN: 0-8455), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of Company G, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 11 May 1945. Continually exposing himself to hostile fire, Captain Norton courageously led his troops in an attack against a strong hostile force entrenched on Dakeshi Ridge, heavily-armed with mortars, grenade dischargers and automatic weapons. Personally directing the efforts of his company, he contributed greatly to the successful completion of this attack by his battalion. By his bravery, leadership and devotion to duty throughout, Captain Norton upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.