The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward J. Downey, Jr. (MCSN: 502101), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Member of a Combat Patrol serving with the First Battalion, Twentieth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, on 20 July 1944. Contacting a large force of Japanese troops occupying well-concealed positions during the later stages of the fierce hostilities following our invasion of this strategic enemy base, Private First Class Downey fearlessly risked his life to engage the Japanese and, forcing this attack with determined aggressiveness, waged a bitter fire fight in an effort to crush the stubborn pocket of hostile resistance. Although twice wounded during the close encounter, he continued his valiant assault tactics until fatally struck down by the merciless enemy barrages. An indomitable fighter, Private First Class Downey, by his bold initiative, relentless fighting spirit and resolute fortitude in the face of savage opposition, succeeded in releasing friendly troops pinned down by the deadly Japanese fire and in disrupting the deeply entrenched enemy strong point. His great personal courage and decisive conduct during a critical situation upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.