The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant William F. F. Schneider (MCSN: 326609), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company E, Second Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Observing a hostile 49-mm. anti-boat gun opposing successive landing operations during our assault against the heavily fortified stronghold on D-Day, Sergeant Schneider immediately launched an aggressive single-handed attack on the emplacement and, despite wounds received during the fierce action, valiantly fought on in the face of terrific hostile fire until the gun was put out of action. By his daring initiative, dauntless perseverance and valiant fighting spirit maintained against tremendous odds, Sergeant Schneider saved the lives of many men who otherwise might have perished and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.