The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Michael J. Lix (MCSN: 469584), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifleman, serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 8 March 1945. When his platoon was taken under a withering barrage of hostile mortar fire while patrolling forward of friendly lines, Private First Class Lix unhesitatingly left his protected position to aid one of the Marine casualties and, although wounded by shrapnel, valiantly disregarded the overwhelming volume of enemy fire in a determined attempt to remove his comrade from the danger area, continuing his efforts until himself mortally wounded by the shattering mortar fire. His inspiring actions and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of terrific odds reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Lix and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.