The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Alfred R. Manning (MCSN: 285751), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Acting Platoon Leader, serving with Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 26 May 1945. Disregarding grave personal danger, Sergeant Manning voluntarily moved out alone thirty yards ahead of friendly lines to destroy an enemy position which was impeding his platoon’s advance up a strategic ridge. Struck by a hostile bullet as he made his way forward, he resolutely continued to crawl over the difficult terrain until he had reached a vantage point and then, skillfully hurling hand grenades into the Japanese emplacement, killed all four of the enemy, thereby clearing the route of advance for his platoon. By his bold initiative, resolute fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty, Sergeant Manning contributed materially to the effectiveness of his company’s operation in this area, and his conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon Sergeant Manning and the United States Naval Service.