The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Raymond Aquillia (MCSN: 502715), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Bazooka Operator, serving with Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 24 June 1944. During an advance to a high ridge, Private First Class Aquillia disregarded heavy enemy fire to evacuate the seriously wounded members of a machine gun crew and to secure the machine gun and ammunition, completing three trips in the accomplishment of this mission despite serious wounds received in the course of the action. His bravery perseverance and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Aquillia and the United States Naval Service.