The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Walter T. Percer (MCSN: 330861), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as squad leader serving with the First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division in combat against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands on November 20, 1943. Unable to get his machine gun ashore, Corporal Percer organized his squad as riflemen and led them about seventy-five yards inland. Although he had lost his rifle and was suffering intensely from wounds sustained during this action he seized a bayonet and ordered his men to follow him. Courageously working his way forward in the face of enemy opposition he proceeded to storm a Japanese pill box and had advanced about ten yards before he fell. Corporal Percer’s inspiring leadership, fearless determination and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.