The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant Hugh D. Reeves (MCSN: 260571), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of the Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion, Fifth Amphibious Corps, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Mariana Islands, 10 and 11 July 1944. Fearlessly swimming ashore to the enemy-held beach, Gunnery Sergeant Reeves participated, with great skill and daring , in a patrol to determine definitely and accurately the presence, location and nature of beach obstacles; the presence, location and characteristics of depths of water on reefs; the height and characteristics of cliff suitability of those beaches and inland terrain for invasion by our forces. Successfully executing the mission under the vigilance of Japanese patrols, soldiery, and fortifications, he, with the other members of the group. Returned to his station with intelligence information of the highest value which contributed materially to the success of the subsequent landings on Tinian beaches. His courageous action, resourceful initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.