The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Allen M. Holding (ASN: 35166950), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 27th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the battle for Saipan on 16 June 1944. When on the second day of the battle for this vital central Pacific base, his company was pinned down by heavy fire from enemy machine guns, mortars and dual purpose guns, Sergeant Holding, leader of a mortar squad, left cover to improve his view of the target he had detected. From this point he gave excellent fire orders long enough to enable his company to advance and secure its objective. While calling out fire orders he was instantly killed by a direct hit from an enemy dual purpose gun. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.