The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm O. Donohoo (MCSN: 0-5335), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Twenty-second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 10 May 1945. Prior to dawn under the cover of darkness, Lieutenant Colonel Donohoo directed elements of his command in crossing the Asa Kawa River preparatory to launching an assault upon the high ground south of the river. Observing that the two assault companies were halted by the fierce hostile resistance on the opposite bank, he immediately left his position in the Observation Post and, contacting the reserve company, issued new orders for its crossing of the river. Then, after crossing the Asa Kawa under heavy enemy fire, he directed the assault companies in a new scheme of maneuver and, despite the continuing hostile resistance, remained with the assault units throughout the day, directing, leading and encouraging his men in the attack. By his able leadership, valor and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Donohoo contributed materially to the success of his battalion in seizing their objective before nightfall, and his conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.