The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Gordon Vail Brooks (NSN: 0-336343), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in February 1945, as a member of an assault unit during the assault and capture of Iwo Jima Island. In the face of enemy rifle, machine gun, and mortar fire, he bravely prepared the way for the operations of combat troops and by his courageous devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of this hazardous mission. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.