The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Joseph W. Ryder (MCSN: 894174), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 24 February 1945. When the advance of his unit was halted by heavy enemy small-arms and mortar fire, Private Ryder volunteered to lead a tank by use of arm and hand signals through the front lines and into position from which hostile positions could be demolished. He directed the tank in and among enemy positions until the Japanese strong point was reduced and his company was able to renew the advance. Private Ryder’s courage, initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.