The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain James P. O’Laughlin (MCSN: 0-13166), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 5 May 1945. Crossing a valley which was constantly subjected to a devastating enemy mortar and machine-gun barrage, Captain O’Laughlin directed his company in an attack against a strongly-defended hostile ridge which was holding up the advance of our troops and, although wounded, refused evacuation and continued to direct operations throughout the extremely hazardous hours of ceaseless combat until the objective was secured. By his grim determination and brilliant leadership, Captain O’Laughlin contributed materially to the success of our operation in this area. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.