The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Kent Arnold (MCSN: 0-23465), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Leader, attached to Company G, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 1 – 2 March 1945. Recommitted to the attack, following the reorganization of his platoon which had been reduced by heavy enemy gunfire, First Lieutenant Arnold personally led his men forward, one and two at a time, to covered positions to his front, thereby advancing his platoon and contributing to the advance of adjacent units. Undaunted by a series of counterattacks launched against his position during the night, he unhesitatingly left his command post to proceed under fire to the aid of three of his men in an isolated position. Although struck down and instantly killed as he gained the besieged position, First Lieutenant Arnold had rendered valiant service during this critical period of operations. His courage, leadership and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.