The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant James Fields Mayenschein (MCSN: 0-16213), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while as Executive Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 28 February 1945. When his two forward platoons were suddenly stopped by an unprecedented barrage of hostile artillery, mortar and machine-gun fire which caused so many casualties that a gap appeared in the lines, First Lieutenant Mayenschein gallantly moved forward to the stricken platoons and, with expert tactical ability, proceeded to effect a reorganization and outline to his subordinates the course of an orderly withdrawal. Directing the withdrawal and evacuation of the wounded, he assisted wherever possible with first aid and the removal of the wounded to safety in spite of the withering fire, persisting in his hazardous mission until fatally wounded by enemy shrapnel. His inspiring leadership and courageous initiative reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Mayenschein and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.