The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Howard Donald Ladieu (ASN: 20203638), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 27th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 7 July 1944. While advancing against the enemy, Staff Sergeant Ladieu hand-carried a light machine gun, in the face of heavy enemy rifle and grenade fire, in the center of the advancing line. During this time, Staff Sergeant Ladieu, with total disregard for his life, brought his gun to bear in such a manner as to kill many of the enemy. Because of his quick thinking, and by the fire of his gun, he kept the remaining enemy at bay so that they could not return fire with any appreciable accuracy. By this act, Staff Sergeant Ladieu not only contributed materially to the success of the attack, but was also a constant inspiration to the other advancing troops. Staff Sergeant Ladieu’s 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.