The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Donald Mellins (MCSN: 460422), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with a company of the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, on 15 September 1944. Hastily bringing up a spare bazooka when an enemy tank counterattack appeared imminent, Private First Class Mellins unhesitatingly ran out beyond the front lines without an assistant and, although unaccustomed to this type of weapon, succeeded in destroying one of the hostile tanks and continued firing the bazooka as long as the ammunition lasted. Then, running further into the open, he moved a stranded machine gun and courageously manned it in the face of intense, accurate enemy fire until he was killed by a shell from one of the tanks. Private First Class Mellins’ splendid initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and great personal valor undoubtedly saved many lives, enabled his company to maintain its lines and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.