The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John D. Figuereor (MCSN: 348525), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Gunner in a Machine Gun squad of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 17 September 1944. When his platoon was ordered to withdraw from its occupied position, Private First Class Figuereor voluntarily remained behind at his gun to cover the withdrawal and, accurately directing the fire, rendered three enemy knee mortars inactive, thereby enabling his platoon to reorganize in comparative safety. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Figuereor and the United States Naval Service.