The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Howard J. Lamson (MCSN: 0-14004), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Platoon Leader attached to the Third Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, from 15 to 18 June 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, First Lieutenant Lamson led his platoon to its objective and, by his skillful direction of mortar and small-arms fire, successfully repelled several fierce counter-attacks. Utterly disregarding his own safety under heavy artillery and mortar fire, he bandaged the wounds of his men and moved them to protected areas and also skillfully directed the covering forces and removal or destruction of all abandoned equipment. Although seriously wounded by hostile fire while leading an assault on an enemy pillbox that was denying his Battalion its objective, First Lieutenant Lamson had contributed materially to the ultimate success of the operations for this strategically important Japanese stronghold. His outstanding leadership and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.