The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Leon D. Cayton (MCSN: 506725), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-ninth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, 15 to 28 June 1944. Painfully wounded by shrapnel on his first night patrol, Private First Class Cayton refused evacuation from a rear area and, making his way to the front lines, continued his hazardous scouting operations until the following day. Penetrating enemy-held territory in a daring reconnaissance mission two days later, he was again wounded but refused to be evacuated and, observing that his company was pinned down by merciless Japanese mortar fire, made a valiant attempt to rejoin his platoon, pushing forward with resolute determination until he fell, mortally wounded. Private First Class Cayton’s remarkable fortitude and selfless devotion to duty were contributing factors in the success of a hazardous operation and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.