The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Andrew N. Chrisaidos (MCSN: 935564), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on 7 March 1945, as a platoon leader of an assault rifle company on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. When his platoon was ambushed and trapped and the platoon leader and non-commissioned officers became casualties, Private First Class Chrisaidos voluntarily assumed command. While exposed to enemy machine gun fire and hand grenades, he went from position to position encouraging the men to hold the ground and skillfully directed their fire. His calm leadership and effective firing of his sub-machine gun averted panic in the platoon and inspired the men to repel the enemy. After a non-commissioned officer arrived to take charge of the situation, Private First Class Chrisaidos collapsed, completely fatigued by his strenuous efforts. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.