The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal John V. Stilwell (MCSN: 369698), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of a Rifle Squad serving with the Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 18 September 1944. When his platoon leader was wounded during an assault on the enemy-held ridges north of the airport, Corporal Stilwell unhesitatingly risked his life to pull the helpless man to safety under an intense, devastating Japanese artillery barrage and, subsequently assuming command of the remaining elements of the platoon, courageously continued the vital, hazardous attack against the highly strategic enemy positions. Wounded and evacuated the following day, he voluntarily returned to combat action on 21 September but was later killed by a hostile sniper. Corporal Stilwell’s splendid initiative and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.