The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John W. Bloomfield (MCSN: 531795), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during the assault and occupation of enemy Japanese-held Saipan Island in the Marianas, from 15 June to 9 July 1944. Moving approximately seventy-five yards in advance of his platoon while executing a dangerous mission, Private First Class Bloomfield observed a wounded Marine caught in the deadly crossfire of powerful Japanese guns. Despite the merciless hail emanating from cave-emplaced machine guns in the cliffs, he immediately discarded his rifle and, dropping to a prone position, fearlessly worked his way forward in a daring attempt to evacuate his comrade but was instantly killed by a burst of enemy fire as he reached the side of the helpless man. His intrepid initiative, resolute fortitude and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Bloomfield and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.