The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Rodney Edwin Gaumnitz (MCSN: 0-36198), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a platoon leader, attached to Company F, Twenty-second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 15 May 1945. Determined to carry out the vital but hazardous mission of establishing a strong point on Sugar Loaf Hill, Second Lieutenant Gaumnitz led his men in a day-long assault against the fierce and continuous resistance of strongly fortified Japanese positions. Fighting valiantly against the enemy’s renewed attacks after attaining his objective, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense hostile fire to direct defense operations by which his platoon maintained the hill for about two hours. Remaining behind to cover the withdrawal of his troops, he was mortally wounded as he attempted to reach a place of safety. His courageous leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were inspiring to his men and reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Gaumnitz and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.