The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Lionel L. Ducarpe, Jr. (MCSN: 272794), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Regimental Weapons Company, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 18 June 1944. Upon learning that his first sergeant lay wounded in enemy-held territory, Private First Class Ducarpe unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a motorized party of five men into the hostile area and attempt to rescue the helpless Marine. Although he was severely wounded in both legs by withering enemy automatic fire from a concealed position, Private First Class Ducarpe steadfastly refused to be evacuated and, courageously manning the machine gun mounted on his jeep, effectively covered the withdrawal of his companions before he was mortally wounded at his weapon. Private First Class Ducarpe’s indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.