The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant John E. Pesola (MCSN: 334076), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Twenty-second Marines, Fifth Amphibious Corps during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Parry Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands on 22 February 1944. With the left flank of his company pinned down by hostile machine gun fire, Sergeant Pesola on his own initiative, courageously led his squad around to the position under attack, promptly opening fire and putting the Japanese machine gun nest out of action thereby enabling the company to continue advance. Later, coming under heavy fire supposed to be a hostile counter attack he bravely ordered his men to hold their fire and by his alertness and insight prevented possible casualties among friendly advancing forces. Sergeant Pesola’s gallant conduct throughout this hazardous engagement was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.