The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal George F. Jones (MCSN: 318935), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Islands, 27 September 1944. When his platoon leader and sergeant were struck down by bursts of enemy fire during an attack to secure a draw on the right flank of his company’s area, Corporal Jones immediately assumed command of the platoon and proceeded to carry out the neutralization of an enemy-held cave in command of the area, personally accounting for several casualties inflicted on the Japanese. Although wounded by fragments from a grenade while leading his men forward, he continued in his gallant efforts, consenting to first aid treatment only after the area was secured and subsequently returning to action with his company. By his courage initiative and devotion to duty, Corporal Jones upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.