The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Charles R. Juhnke (MCSN: 299408), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Squad Leader in a combat patrol serving with the First Battalion, Twentieth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during operations at Saipan, Marianas Group, on 20 July 1944. Skillfully deploying his men upon making contact with a strong enemy force, Sergeant Juhnke immediately launched a vigorous attack against powerful hostile positions in the face of withering enemy fire. Observing a member of his squad lying helpless in a dangerously exposed position, he unhesitatingly braved the continuous barrages from powerful Japanese guns in an attempt to rescue his comrade but was fatally struck down while carrying out his voluntary mission. His cool courage and self-sacrificing efforts in behalf of another upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.