The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant John B. Creel (MCSN: 0-27662), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands on 2 July 1944. When his platoon was pinned down by intense fire from Japanese guns, Second Lieutenant Creel unhesitatingly went forward twice and after skillfully locating enemy machine guns obtained a tank and while exposing himself to hostile fire, valiantly directed its fire on hostile positions. Seriously wounded on his third daring attempt to advance, Second Lieutenant Creel crawled back to his platoon subsequently succumbing to his wounds. By his outstanding leadership and splendid courage in the face of extreme peril he contributed materially to the success of our vital operations on this strategically important island and his unflinching devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.