The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class George H. Rice (MCSN: 444725), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, on 20 August 1944. Pinned down by withering hostile machine-gun and rifle fire which wounded his squad leader and killed a companion, Private First Class Rice steadfastly held his ground and, despite his dangerously isolated position, boldly advanced upon the enemy troops, pouring automatic weapon fire into their ranks with deadly accuracy. Fearlessly making himself a target for well-concealed Japanese guns, he skillfully covered evacuation of the helpless leader and, although he himself was severely wounded, relentlessly maintained a steady stream of fire and permitted his squad to deploy and continue the assault before he was fatally struck down. Private First Class Rice’s daring initiative and great personal valor in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.