The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Robert W. Blundell (MCSN: 312123), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gun Section Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 26 February and 6 March 1945. Voluntarily advancing alone about one hundred yards to the side of a wounded Marine lying in an exposed position between our lines and the enemy, Sergeant Blundell braved hostile rifle and machine gun fire to drag the helpless man to safety. After the Platoon Leader and all of the non-commissioned officer of an assault rifle platoon had become casualties on 6 March, he assumed command and led it efficiently in a night attack on heavily-fortified enemy positions. By his courageous leadership, Sergeant Blundell enabled the platoon to hold the ground gained despite numerous casualties suffered until orders to withdraw were given. His courageous leadership and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.