The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John S. Reed (MCSN: 452413), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving in a Marine Field Depot Ammunition Company of the Fifth Field Depot, Supply Service, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, 5 August 1944. When a large stack of 155-mm. powder charges was ignited during a fire fight following a hostile attack on our ammunition company’s outpost, Corporal Reed bravely volunteered to climb on the burning stack and, despite the danger from the burning powder and intense hostile fire, assisted in extinguishing the blaze by throwing out the flaming powder containers, thereby preventing a dangerous explosion and saving a large amount of vitally needed powder. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.