The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John J. Poe (MCSN: 903409), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as leader of a rifle squad of Company G, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 4 May 1945. Constantly exposing himself to relentless enemy rifle and grenade barrages, Corporal Poe led his squad in a successful assault upon a strongly fortified hostile position near Dakeshi Village and although severely wounded during the fierce exchange of hostilities, steadfastly refused to leave his post, continuing to direct the attack until his squad had succeeded in taking the objective. By his gallant leadership, daring initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of fanatic Japanese resistance, Corporal Poe contributed immeasurably to the success of the attack and his valiant conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.