The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Augustine V. Jauregui (MCSN: 0-27180), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as platoon leader attached to the First Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, November 20, 1943. Despite a painful wound received earlier in the action, Second Lieutenant Jauregui valiantly led his assault position against the enemy in the face of intense opposition. Later in the day when his forces were held up by heavy rifle fire, he signaled his men to cease firing and, armed with a rifle, went forward alone and daringly rushed the enemy emplacement. With fearless determination, he killed several Japanese, driving the others out and, although he himself was fatally wounded during the action, enabled his command to move forward and rout those still remaining in the platoon’s zone of attack. Second Lieutenant Jauregui’s great personnel valor, superb leadership and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.