The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Max Belko (MCSN: 0-19960), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the First Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, during the assault on enemy Japanese-held Guam, in the Mariana Islands, on 21 July 1944. Quickly organizing his platoon upon landing, First Lieutenant Belko personally led a determined attack across an open fire-swept area and, cautioning his men to make use of all available cover although continually exposing himself to the terrific barrage, relentlessly pushed on and captured the hill to his immediate front which was the limited objective of his company. Struck down by an enemy fusillade while disposing his unit against a desperate counterattack, he placed his platoon sergeant in charge of defensive measures pending orders from the company commander and dispatched information regarding his tactical situation and strength to his commanding officer before succumbing to his wound. By his aggressive leadership and personal valor, First Lieutenant Belko inspired his men with an indomitable fighting spirit which carried them through a bitterly fought battle to the achievement of their objective in a minimum of time, and his 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.