The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant William W. McGinniss (MCSN: 0-18159), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Platoon Leader attached to the Second Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Saipan, Mariana Islands, 15 to 19 June 1944. Sustaining two severe wounds immediately after landing on the heavily fortified, fire-swept beachhead on D-Day, First Lieutenant McGinniss steadfastly refused evacuation and, fighting valiantly on in the face of shattering hostile artillery and machine-gun fire, boldly led his men in determined, relentless attacks against the Japanese, contributing materially to the success of a critical stage in the operation and to the eventual capture of this vital hostile stronghold. An outstanding leader, courageous and determined in the performance of duty, First Lieutenant McGinniss later lost his life while leading an assault against a strong hostile position. His zealous devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.