The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Ralph D. Norquist (MCSN: 370737), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company G, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 1 March 1945. Taking command of the rifle platoon to which his machine gun section was attached after the platoon leader and platoon sergeant became casualties, Sergeant Norquist led his riflemen and attached tanks across open, fire-swept terrain and, in eliminating a strongly fortified position, inflicted several casualties among the enemy. Later in the day although wounded by shrapnel, he refused evacuation and constantly checked his lines to insure their security. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Sergeant Norquist and the United States Naval Service.