The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant David C. McNeel (MCSN: 488481), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Sergeant Guide of an Assault Platoon serving with the Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 16 September 1944. With both his platoon leader and platoon sergeant wounded by withering enemy fire, Sergeant McNeel unhesitatingly assumed command of the unit and continued a furious assault against hostile pillboxes defending the beach. Skillfully launching a flanking attack on a Japanese anti-boat gun firing from a strongly constructed emplacement and causing serious damage to our landing craft and personnel, he valiantly attempted to hurl grenades directly into the embrasure of the pillbox but was mortally wounded before he could accomplish his mission. As a result of his inspiring leadership, men in his command charged forward and annihilated the hostile stronghold, thereby eliminating a serious threat to the security of the entire beach. Sergeant McNeel’s daring initiative and great personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.