The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Reginald Fincke, Jr. (MCSN: 0-28382), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of a Rifle Company in the Third Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, on 15 May 1945. Assigned the mission of reinforcing and holding perilous front line position on strategic Sugar Loaf Hill, Firs Lieutenant Fincke promptly appraised the situation and then gallantly led his men forward through enemy infested, unfamiliar terrain to the base of the hill. When an overwhelming force of Japanese troops launched a vicious counterattack immediately thereafter, he skillfully deployed his men for maximum strength in a valiant attempt to repel the vicious onslaught and, bravely facing a shattering barrage of machine-gun, rifle and mortar fire laid down by the enemy, directed his men in a bitterly fought battle to hold the vital terrain until he was fatally struck down by a bursting hostile shell. Inspired by his brilliant leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and courage, First Lieutenant Fincke’s intrepid company continued to hold its position despite the severe casualties sustained during the fierce action, finally driving forward and seizing one of the most important strong points on this heavily fortified island. His thorough knowledge of combat tactics, untiring zeal and valiant devotion to duty maintained in the face of tremendous odds, were contributing factors in the outstanding success achieved by his company and reflect the highest credit upon himself, his command and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.