The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Ralph C. Bevans, Jr. (MCSN: 0-7393), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of an Armored Amphibian Group of the FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 February to 26 March 1945. In the face of intense hostile fire from the heights overlooking the beach, Major Bevans courageously led the first assault wave ashore and skillfully deployed his men in effective positions from which they delivered accurate supporting fire for the advancing infantry. During the assault on Mount Suribachi, he bravely exposed himself to heavy enemy fire to coordinate the delivery of direct supporting fire of his group to the assault troops, inflicting heavy casualties on the Japanese. By his tactical skill, fortitude and aggressive spirit, Major Bevans upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.