The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Peter E. McDonnell (MCSN: 0-15544), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 18 May 1945. Ordered to direct his company in the attack and seizure of heavily fortified Wana Ridge on the southern tip of the Island, First Lieutenant McDonnell boldly went forward of friendly lines prior to the advance to reconnoiter for a favorable covered route of approach. Constantly subjected to intense machine-gun, mortar and small-arms fire laid down by a fiercely resisting enemy, he succeeded in determining the most favorable method of attack and, returning to his own lines, skillfully deployed his men and led them in an assault up the ridge. When the Japanese suddenly opened up with relentless fury as he gained the crest and many of his men were struck down under the blistering shellfire, he remained calm and courageous despite the tremendous odds and, maintaining complete control of his unit, directed an orderly withdrawal of all the dead and wounded with a minimum of casualties among his men. Mortally wounded by hostile fire a few hours later, First Lieutenant McDonnell, by his forceful leadership, dauntless perseverance and great personal valor in the face of terrific opposition, had served as a constant inspiration to his men and contributed to the success of the bitterly fought Okinawa campaign. His heroic conduct and zealous devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.