The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Robert S. Waco (MCSN: 919675), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Member of Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 4 May 1945. Braving a barrage of enemy machine gun and rifle fire to go to the aid of his wounded fire team leader, Private First Class Waco attempted to move his comrade from the danger area. Although wounded himself in this attempt, he persevered in his mission and succeeded in bringing the wounded man to a place of safety where evacuation was made possible. By his courage under fire and unselfish devotion to the welfare of a comrade, Private First Class Waco served as an inspiration to all and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.