The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Gene Rodenbush (MCSN: 425407), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Squad Leader of a Light Machine-Gun Squad serving with the Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands, 28 July 1944. Although himself greatly weakened by loss of blood from serious wounds and with his entire squad incapacitated under the fury of an enemy counterattack, Private First Class Rodenbush maintained his station steadfastly until he had exhausted his supply of ammunition, and then he continued to assist in the repulse of the enemy by throwing several hand grenades. By his unwavering devotion to duty and his heroic fighting spirit, Private Fist Class Rodenbush single-handedly, destroyed nineteen of the Japanese troops. His gallant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.