The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Gerald J. Holmes (MCSN: 1204248), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Assistant Gunner of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 May 1952. When his unit was pinned down by heavy fire from an enemy bunker during an attack against a strongly defended position, Private First Class Holmes fearlessly exposed himself to intense grenade and small arms fire to single-handedly assault the strong point, firing his gun and hurling grenades until the position was neutralized. By his aggressive fighting spirit, courageous initiative and resolute determination in the face of heavy odds, Private First Class Holmes inspired his fellow Marines to sweep on and overrun the enemy strong point, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.