The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Marion Arthur Black (MCSN: 824061), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Squad Leader while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action on enemy Japanese-held Okinawa, Ryukyu Chain, 4 May 1945. When two Marines were seriously wounded by enemy fire, Corporal Black voluntarily left a position of comparative safety and braved an intense barrage of hostile shellfire in an attempt to effect their rescue. Fully aware of his great danger, he proceeded to the helpless men and succeeded in evacuating them to a place of safety before he fell, mortally wounded. By his daring initiative, dauntless courage and heroic efforts on behalf of his comrades, Corporal Black undoubtedly saved the lives of two Marines who otherwise would have perished. His self-sacrificing devotion to duty was an inspiration to those with whom he served and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.