The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Harold L. Shelton (MCSN: 832562), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Second Battalion, Tenth Marines SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 20 June 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Shelton rendered valiant service during initial operations in this strategically important island, On 29 June 1944, he voluntarily entered a blazing dump containing large quantities of explosives, artillery and mortar ammunition, exerting every effort to isolate and extinguish the fire despite the extreme hazards. His self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Shelton and the United States Naval Service.