The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Ralph P. Beazley (MCSN: 868041), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman with Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island in the Palau Group on 15 September 1944. The only Marine left within a sector of fifteen yards after all his comrades were killed while fighting off a powerful hostile counterattack in force on the right front of our lines, Private Beazley steadfastly maintained his position, alternately firing his automatic rifle and hurling hand grenades to inflict extremely heavy casualties on the fanatic, on-rushing Japanese. Mortally wounded in the fierce hostilities, he stoutly refused to leave his position, holding valiantly until death overcame him after the enemy had been driven back. By his determined aggressiveness, indomitable fighting spirit and resolute fortitude in the face of terrific odds, Private Beazley single-handedly completed the repulse of the final Japanese effort to counterattack his sector, and is unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.