The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Rogers Blood (MCSN: 0-17591), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines (Reinforced), in action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, on 18 February 1944. Promptly and skillfully organizing his men upon landing, First Lieutenant Blood courageously led his platoon in a valiant charge across open terrain in the face of severe hostile machine gun, mortar and rifle fire to dislodge the heavily entrenched enemy. Although he was killed during this action, his heroic leadership and indomitable fighting spirit so inspired his men that they unhesitatingly pressed forward under the continuing Japanese fire and successfully routed the hostile forces. First Lieutenant Blood’s great personal valor and self-sacrificing efforts under extremely hazardous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.