The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Donald A. Spinney (MCSN: 354879), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Fire Team Leader of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, Palau Islands, 17 September 1944. When his Squad Leader was wounded during an attack against hostile forces entrenched in deep coral caves and well protected by mortar and machine-gun fire, Corporal Spinney immediately assumed command and skillfully deployed his men in advantageous positions from which to fire on the enemy. After his squad had been ordered to withdraw to a better location, he fearlessly remained in an exposed position and, delivering effective covering fire, enabled several wounded to be carried to places of safety. Although seriously wounded, Corporal Spinney continued to expose himself to the hostile fire until he was assured that the new defensive positions had been established. His heroism, initiative and determination under heavy enemy mortar, rifle and grenade fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.