The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Stanley J. Dudek (MCSN: 878150), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan, in the Marianas, on 17 June 1944. Voluntarily exposing himself to the merciless barrage from Japanese guns, Private First Class Dudek fearlessly closed in on an enemy tank which had broken through the lines during a furious Japanese counterattack. Persistently hurling powerful antitank grenades at the enemy vehicle as he continuously shifted into positions affording better lanes of fire, he steadfastly held his ground despite the intense concentration of hostile mortar, machine-gun and artillery fire, continuing his valiant efforts with aggressive determination until serious shrapnel wounds compelled his evacuation. An indomitable fighter, Private First Class Dudek, by his intrepid initiative, resolute fortitude and cool courage in the face of savage, unceasing opposition, contributed materially to the ultimate conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout a period of fierce hostilities was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.