The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Howard G. Sawyer (MCSN: 479074), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Battery H, Third Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 7 July 1944. While serving as a driver and runner for the Battery Commander during a strong enemy counterattack, in which his commander was severely wounded, Private First Class Sawyer courageously exposed himself to intense small-arms and mortar fire to go to the aid of a wounded man. After dragging the officer to the shelter of some airplane motors, he administered first aid and protected him until evacuation could be effected. By his initiative and untiring devotion to duty, Private First Class Sawyer undoubtedly saved the man’s life, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.