The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Irvin B. Mayer (MCSN: 530314), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Group Leader in a platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 19 February 1945. When the terrific fire pouring from an enemy emplacement stopped the advance of his platoon, Corporal Mayer boldly exposed himself to the blasting fury of hostile guns sweeping the beach and, proceeding on foot, led a tank through the hazardous area to reinforce his platoon. Using arm and hand signals, he directed the tank’s fire against the savage resistance and enabling the platoon to continue the assault upon the island’s most strongly-fortified position. While valiantly pressing home this attack, Corporal Mayer was fatally wounded by enemy action. His daring initiative and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.