The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal John F. Powers (MCSN: 282558), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as member of demolitions team serving with the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group on 1 October 1944. Rushing forward under cover of a single sub-machine gun when his company was held up by the enemy’s intense fire, Corporal Powers boldly planted a demolition charge in a hostile gun emplacement and returned to his own position. Determined to annihilate the enemy, he unhesitatingly returned the second time hurling his charge with such force and accuracy as to destroy both the gun emplacement and the entire crew. By his unflinching bravery and gallant fighting spirit, Corporal Powers greatly aided the advance of his company and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.