The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Sam Mandich (MCSN: 0-16878), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Shore Party Commander of Company A, Fourth Pioneer Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. When heavy enemy shelling struck and set fire to the combat loaded vehicles, First Lieutenant Mandich entered the area of concentrated shelling in an attempt to save vital communications equipment endangered by the blaze. Despite the hazards of shrapnel and flames, he worked to control the fire and prevent its spreading to nearby vehicles and fuel. When enemy shells, apparently directed at the fire already started, struck one of the trucks, causing it to explode and wound him, First Lieutenant Mandich continued his efforts until driven off by the intense heat. By his initiative and courage devotion to duty in attempting to save critical supplies and equipment, he upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.