The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Julian E. Leonard (MCSN: 0-11330), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the second Battalion Fourth Marines, Reinforced, First Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Crote Peninsula, Guam, on 28 July 1944. With his platoon pinned down by intense hostile mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire during an extremely hazardous advance against the enemy, First Lieutenant Leonard repeatedly pressed forward of our lines in the face of the withering barrage to locate the heavily fortified, deeply entrenched hostile emplacements. Then, making his way back to his own lines, he boldly led his platoon in vigorous, intensive attacks against fanatic and fiercely determined enemy resistance until fatally struck down by hostile fire. By his inspiring leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage to the face of grave peril, First Lieutenant Leonard contributed essentially to the success of our sustained drive toward the recapture of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his tenacious devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.