The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Ernest Garcia (MCSN: 373534), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Squad leader in a rifle Platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, Third Marines Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Torokina Area, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 15 December 1945. Resolutely leading his men over difficult terrain and coordinating their movements and fire in the face of strong enemy opposition, Corporal Garcia moved forward until an overwhelming concentration of Japanese mortar and machine gun fire made withdrawal of his squad and evacuation of the wounded necessary. Remaining in position, he valiantly protected his men during the withdrawal and evacuation operations until he was fatally struck by mortar fire. Corporal Garcia’s self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.