The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major James A. Donovan, Jr. (MCSN: 0-6195), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas Group, 17 June 1944. Coolly perceiving the difficulties to be surmounted after the battalion’s attack was held up at darkness by strong Japanese cave positions to the immediate front, Major Donovan quickly consolidated and reorganized the right half of the battalion sector. Despite the loss of all company commanders and two company executive officers by enemy action, he unhesitatingly carried out his mission in the face of extreme danger. His leadership, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Major Donovan and the United States Naval Service.