The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Lyman E. Reifsnyder (MCSN: 0-15285), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the Third Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 18 June 1944. When his platoon was subjected to a pounding barrage of enemy rifle and machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Reifsnyder skillfully directed the necessary withdrawal of his squads and, after making certain that retirement could be effected safely, voluntarily remained behind to care for the wounded. Courageously making himself a target for Japanese riflemen, he tirelessly administered first aid until he himself was fatally struck down by a sudden burst of enemy fire. By his splendid leadership and daring in the face of grave peril, First Lieutenant Reifsnyder was an inspiration to his men, and his valiant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.