The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Walter E. Lange (MCSN: 0-15519), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 6 May 1945. Undaunted by torrential rains and heavy casualties, First Lieutenant Lange valiantly led his company through a fire-swept draw in a determined assault against a fanatically defending force of Japanese entrenched on a strategic ridge. Repeatedly exposing himself to intense concentrations of hostile fire as he skillfully coordinated the advance of his units, he inspired his heroic men to press forward, rout the enemy and achieve an objective essential for the continuation of the attack. His forceful leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect great credit upon First Lieutenant Lange and the United States Naval Service.