The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Marcus J. Pete (MCSN: 954652), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 1 March 1945. When late in the evening his squad leader and group leader were both wounded and lay unaided close to the enemy lines, Private Pete crept forward at dusk through difficult terrain under heavy hostile mortar, sniper and machine gun fire and succeeded in reaching the wounded men. After skillfully administering first aid, he dragged one of them to safety behind friendly lines and returning through the enemy barrage proceeded to evacuate the other man. Although suffering from concussion caused by an exploding hand grenade he successfully accomplished his hazardous mission. His outstanding courage and unwavering devotion duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.