The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Wayne N. Cross (MCSN: 519857), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company A, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 16 April 1945. Wounded during the final assault on Japanese held Mount Yaetake, Corporal Cross refused to be evacuated and remained to help remove other wounded men behind the lines despite intense hostile fire. Returning to direct his fire team in covering the platoon’s withdrawal, he contributed materially to its orderly retirement and reorganization. His initiative, leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.