The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Assad A. George (MCSN: 279707), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action with enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 23 November 1943. Observing a companion who was defenseless against attack by a Japanese soldier when his rifle failed to function, Private First Class George voluntarily risked his life to aid his comrade and, fearlessly exposing himself to a fanatic enemy, charged forward and rescued the helpless Marine. With his platoon pinned down by shattering hostile fire during an extremely perilous advance later in the action, he valiantly worked his way to the side of the entrenchment against the enemy’s fierce opposition and, delivering his accurate, close-range rifle fire against the strong point, completely wiped out all resistance. By his daring initiative, dauntless perseverance and cool courage, Private First Class George contributed materially to the eventual success of the campaign and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.