The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John D. Hartley (MCSN: 896946), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Member of Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 78 May 1945. When hostile machine gun fire wounded his platoon leader and pinned down his platoon during an attack on an enemy held ridge, Corporal Hartley assumed command and, realizing that the platoon would be wiped out unless decisive action was taken, courageously left his covered position in the face of intense enemy fire to continue the attack. Urging his men to follow, he led an assault on the hostile position with the result that the Japanese were annihilated and the stronghold overrun. His leadership and aggressive fighting spirit were an inspiration to his men and his devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.