The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert B. Jeter (MCSN: 0-15496), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Tank Platoon Leader of Company B, Third Tank Battalion, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 11 March 1945. When the rifle company supported by his tanks was ordered to withdraw and the enemy immediately laid down heavy fire across the open ground through which the company had to move, First Lieutenant Jeter dismounted from his tank and, crossing over one hundred yards of open terrain under accurate small-arms fire, contacted the company commander to recommend means of supporting a withdrawal and evacuating the wounded. Returning to his tank, he directed the fire power of his platoon upon enemy positions as the company moved back and, although the hours of darkness were approaching, remained in position after the company had withdrawn and maneuvered his tanks as shields for the casualties to enable their evacuation through the open ground. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.