The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel John J. Gormley (MCSN: 0-5623), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Seventy Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands from 3 May to 19 June 1945. Operating at all times from forward observation posts and exposed areas frequently under heavy hostile small-arms, mortar and artillery fire, Lieutenant Colonel Gormley successfully directed his Battalion against determined, well-entrenched Japanese forces. Despite adverse weather conditions which made supply, movement and communications extremely difficult, he maintained outstanding control of the troops in the assault on the heavily-defended Dakeshi and Kunishi Ridges and in the pursuit of the enemy from the Kokuba River to Kunishi Ridge. By his courageous determination and outstanding tactical skill, Lieutenant Colonel Gormley served as a constant source of inspiration to his officers and men and contributed materially to the destruction of the enemy in the Regimental zone of action. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.