The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant John J. Duffy, Jr. (MCSN: 369643), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Shore Party of the Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the initial phase of the recapture of Guam, Mariana Islands, 21 July 1944. Exposing himself to hostile fire throughout the night, Gunnery Sergeant Duffy issued ammunition with the aid of a flashlight despite constant danger from enemy snipers. When a hostile demolitions party penetrated the outer defenses and threatened the ammunition dump, he assisted a Marine Officer in organizing his platoon which engaged and defeated the enemy, thereby averting destruction of vital supplies. His courageous devotion to duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.