The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Raymond E. Pierce, Jr. (MCSN: 1161390), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving successively as an Ammunition Bearer, Assistant Gunner and Gunner in a Machine Gun Squad of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 13 September 1951. When the machine gun squad suffered casualties during an attack against a well-fortified hill position, Private First Class Pierce bravely moved forward in the face of withering hostile fire and aided in setting the machine gun in a forward position to support the attack. While engaged in giving fire support to the attacking elements, he observed an enemy hand grenade rolling directly toward the gun and its crew. Quickly leaping from his position, he seized the deadly missile and hurled it from the position. Seriously wounded when the grenade exploded as it left his hand, Private First Class Pierce, by his inspiring courage, initiative and aggressive fighting spirit contributed materially to the success of the attack and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.