The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles A. Serio (MCSN: 443219), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Fifth Pioneer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 26 March 1945. When a Japanese force of approximately two hundred officers and men, penetrated deep into the bivouac area of his battalion, Sergeant Serio procured and distributed badly needed ammunition to units of the battalion. Commandeering a jeep, he picked up casualties while delivering ammunition and, in a fire fight, killed four of the enemy who attempted to stop him at the Battalion Ammunition Dump. Although subject to the fire of friendly troops as well as that of the enemy due to darkness and confusion, Sergeant Serio courageously continued his efforts and contributed materially to the complete annihilation of the attackers. His aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.