The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Jacob Cruz (MCSN: 516933), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with a machine gun platoon attached to the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in combat against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands on the night of November 22, 1943. When his platoon was in desperate need of ammunition during fierce enemy counter attacks, Private Cruz worked tirelessly procuring it from distributing pints in the rear. Exposed at all times to hostile fire, he continued to carry out his perilous task with utter disregard for his own personal safety until he was killed by the enemy. Private Cruz’s heroic devotion to duty was a vital factor in the success of our forces in repelling the Japanese and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.