The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Paul B. Reed (MCSN: 829859), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Tractor Operator of the Fifth Engineer Battalion, Fifth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 14 to 20 March 1945. Engaged in constructing tank roads and closing caves during this period, Sergeant Reed courageously operated an armored tractor with angle dozer in front-line zones of action. On 14 March, after completing his assigned mission of building a road beyond the front lines, he voluntarily projected the road two hundred yards further although under intense mortar and small-arms fire, thereby enabling the tanks and infantry to attack and seize many more caves and enemy positions and to advance to the next ridge line. His initiative, coolness under fire and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.