The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Douglas W. Demler, Jr. (MCSN: 0-39506), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader, serving with Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 10 May 1945. When an attack was launched against a strong enemy force which was well established in coral recesses along a precipitous ridge, Second Lieutenant Demler repeatedly exposed himself to intense Japanese artillery and small-arms fire to maneuver elements of his unit into positions from which more accurate fire could be delivered on the enemy emplacements. Mortally wounded while leading his platoon in the face of withering fire, Second Lieutenant Demler by his professional skill, courage and valiant fighting spirit, contributed to the seizure of the enemy strong point and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.