The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain William P. Oliver, Jr. (MCSN: 0-7943), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Battery K, Fourth Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese during the Saipan and Tinian operations in the Mariana Islands. Landing on Saipan, 15 June 1944, soon after the infantry, Captain Oliver made an early reconnaissance to select a battery position and, when the selected position receive heavy counter-battery fire, he emplaced his guns and delivered accurate fire despite extremely adverse conditions arising from casualties, supply and communications problems. Later appointed Operations Officer and then Executive Officer of the Battalion, Captain Oliver performed these tasks with untiring skill and energy, thereby contributing materially to the combat efficiency of the Battalion during the operations. His leadership, courage and devotion to duty throughout this vital assignment were in keeping with the highest traditions on the United States Naval Service.