The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Wendell E. Luna (MCSN: 289861), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, 23 September 1944. Observing that one of his comrades had been wounded and was lying in the open, exposed to intense and merciless enemy artillery and small-arms fire, Private First Class Luna unhesitatingly rushed to his aid and was killed in his heroic attempt to carry the wounded Marine to cover. His unselfish disregard for his own personal safety, his daring courage and unflinching devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Private First Class Luna and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.