The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Robert J. Powell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-23654), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Reconstruction Company, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Palau Islands, 19 September 1944. When his platoon was left with both flanks completely exposed to counterattack, Second Lieutenant Powell heroically directed the defense of his sector, steadfastly maintaining his platoon’s defensive lines until ordered to withdraw. By his gallant leadership and courage in the face of grave danger, he inspired his men to hold a position which was becoming rapidly untenable and, by his zealous devotion to duty throughout, upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.