The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Walter E. Brown (MCSN: 469505), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Rifleman of an Infantry Platoon serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during the Saipan-Tinian phase of the assault against the enemy Japanese-held Mariana Islands, from 15 June to 24 July 1944. Pinned down by heavy enemy fire while advancing with several companions to relieve two tank crews whose disabled vehicles were covered by hostile guns in front of our lines on 4 July, Private First Class Brown boldly pushed ahead for another 300 yards and, despite continuous exposure to Japanese fire, succeeded in reaching his objective and in annihilating numerous snipers en route. By skillfully directing the tank weapons, he assisted in the destruction of two enemy field pieces and, with his group, effected the rescue of the eight crewmen. Subsequently Private First Class Brown, by his relentless fighting spirit and indomitable courage had contributed essentially to the success of his battalion’s vital mission in this strategically important theater of war and his selfless, unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.