The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Loren E. Love (MCSN: 0-18923), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of a Regimental Weapons Platoon attached to the Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 15 and 16 June 1944. With his platoon units disembarked at various points on the heavily fortified beach, First Lieutenant Love boldly faced concentrated enemy artillery, machine-gun and mortar fire to reorganize his men and, fearlessly proceeding across fire-swept areas, personally guided them to a designated area. Immediately leading his platoon into action, he fought valiantly against a fanatic enemy, contributing essentially to the success of the landing and the expeditious establishment of the beachhead. When Japanese forces launched a counterattack against the sector held by his unit the following day, First Lieutenant Love skillfully deployed his men for maximum effectiveness and, accurately directing their gunfire, succeeded in repelling the vicious onslaught. Despite serious wounds received during the action which subsequently proved fatal, First Lieutenant Love, by his brilliant leadership and indomitable fighting spirit, had served as an inspiring example to all members of his platoon, and his unwavering 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.