The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William H. Skeens (MCSN: 450746), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and I intrepidity while serving as a Member of an 81-mm. Mortar Platoon attached to the First Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island, Mariana Islands, 18 June 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Skeens rendered valiant service during the invasion of this strategically important island and, by his technical skill and outstanding conduct contributed materially to the success of a vital campaign pointing toward further victories over the Japanese. On 18 June 1944, the mortar platoon to which he was attached was attacked by an enemy patrol and Private First Class Skeens, utterly disregarding his own safety, left the mortar to which he was assigned and single-handedly attacked the hostile platoon, killing several Japanese before he was killed. His self-sacrificing spirit and heroic determination were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.