The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Donald A. Cuny (MCSN: 541555), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Fist Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 18 September 1944. When his company’s position was threatened by an enemy tank attack Private First Class Cuny quickly fixed an antitank grenade to his rifle and unhesitatingly left cover, advancing in the face of intense enemy machine gun and mortar fire, he attained an advantageous position for firing and launched his grenade partially disabling a hostile tank. Mortally wounded while attempting to return to cover, Private First Class Cuny by his courageous and self-sacrificing action rendered valiant service and aided his company in maintaining its position against the enemy assault. His daring initiative and loyal devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Cuny and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.