The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John M. Leuver (MCSN: 519827), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Mariana Islands, the afternoon of 25 July 1944. With his platoon disorganized and forced to withdraw following a relentless, determined enemy counterattack, Private First Class Leuver steadfastly remained in the front lines with two other member of his fire group to prevent the Japanese from reorganizing for another strike. Boldly facing the withering hostile barrage, he delivered effective fire against the Japanese, covering the withdrawal of his platoon to a position approximately 100 yards to the rear and enabling them to set up a defensive position for the night. Although mortally wounded during the fierce action, Private First Class Leuver, by his fearless determination and valiant fighting spirit, had contributed materially to the success of our forces in this area, and his dauntless courage in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.