The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Gerald C. Putnam (MCSN: 279646), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as leader of a light machine gun section serving with an assault company of the First Battalion, Twenty-second Marines, Reinforced in action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi Islands, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands on February 18, 1944. With dauntless courage Sergeant Putnam repeatedly led his section to favorable attack positions enabling his company to attain its objectives with unusual speed despite fierce hostile resistance. Observing Japanese troops attacking a Marine whose weapon had failed to fire, he unhesitatingly rushed at the enemy with his bayonet and save the life of his comrade. With daring initiative and heroic devotion to duty he continued to direct the advance of his men until killed during the last phase of the operation. Sergeant Putnam’s extreme bravery and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.