The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Jeremiah J. O’Shaughnessy (MCSN: 354867), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the FIRST Marine Division during combat with enemy Japanese force on Cape Gloucester, New Britain January 10, 1944. When enemy units launched a sudden vigorous counterattack, Private First Class O’Shaughnessy immediately took over his machine gun and, despite difficult conditions created by dense jungle undergrowth, maintained a steady line of fire, effectively covering the front of his platoon. Steadfastly refusing to use his weapon for self-protection, he courageously exposed himself to enemy fire, carrying out his duties with cool and aggressive determination until fatally wounded. Private First Class O’Shaughnessy’s courageous initiative and heroic spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.