The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William E. Finley, Jr. (MCSN: 275064), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Guide of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 23 February 1945. When his platoon leader and all the squad leaders were lost, Sergeant Finley, although painfully wounded by shrapnel in the left leg and thigh, refused to be evacuated and remained on duty to assist his acting platoon leader. In addition to aiding in directing a successful attack on an enemy strong point, he rendered invaluable assistance in forming the defensive positions to hold the ground that had been taken. Courageously remaining on the line throughout the night, he consented to evacuation only after his injuries made it impossible for him to continue. His resolute courage and aggressive fighting spirit reflect the highest credit on Sergeant Finley and the United States Naval Service.