The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Charles D. Quinn (MCSN: 344804), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 15 September 1944. While carrying out an extremely hazardous reconnaissance mission to obtain vital information, Corporal Quinn observed a Marine officer pinned down by intense enemy rifle and machine-gun fire and imperiled by snipers. Disregarding his own personal safety, he courageously advanced in the face of the hostile fire and killed the most threatening sniper, thereby saving the officer’s life. Although he received wounds during this action which later proved fatal, he steadfastly refused medical attention and completed his reconnaissance, subsequently dispatching a written report to the Regimental Command Post before he was evacuated. Corporal Quinn’s heroic initiative, self-sacrificing efforts on behalf of another and tenacious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of this country.