The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Gibson R. Oxley (MCSN: 457161), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Fifth Amphibian Tractor Battalion, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Marianas Group, 24 July 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific Japanese opposition, Corporal Oxley rendered valiant service during operations on this strategically important island and, by his technical skill and outstanding conduct contributed materially to the success of a vital campaign pointing toward further victories over the Japanese. While approaching the beach, a tractor which he was commanding was struck by another tractor coming from the beach and a fire was started in the engine compartment. Immediately, Corporal Oxley, utterly disregarding personal danger from hostile machine guns and snipers, leaped upon the cab of his tractor, warned his driver of the fire and tried to extinguish the flame, but was mortally wounded by enemy bullets. His self-sacrificing devotion to duty and heroic fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.