The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant Samuel Chester Howard (MCSN: 308412), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division in operation against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 11 May 1945. Scouting a battle area with two other Marines to determine the number of casualties left behind when his company was forced to withdraw to positions of cover, Platoon Sergeant Howard Courageous rushed an enemy strong point drawing its fire toward himself and affording his two comrades opportunity to advance to good observation positions. Mortally wounded during this heroic action, Platoon Sergeant Howard, by his fearless initiative had enabled the two men to scout, return and report no living casualties in the area, thereby making possible the preparation for a second heavy artillery and naval gun fire attack. By his coolness, courage and inspiring devotion to duty he contributed greatly to neutralizing a position which had been holding up the advance of his battalion for two days. His heroic conduct reflects the highest credit upon Platoon Sergeant Howard and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.