The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward Athaide (MCSN: 362517), United States Marine Corps Reserve , for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 18 September 1944. When terrific enemy fire rendered his position untenable and his squad was forced to withdraw, Private First Class Athaide, in company with another Marine, crawled further forward to the crest of the exposed position and heroically directed accurate automatic rifle fire against the enemy to cover the withdrawal of the remainder of his group and, although discovered by the enemy, nevertheless maintained a steady stream of fire against the Japanese emplacements, insuring the save evacuation of his squad before he was mortally wounded. Private First Class Athaide’s exceptional fighting spirit and valiant, selfless conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.