The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private LeRoy F. Surface (MCSN: 463876), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Antitank Rocket Launcher Operator serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Mariana Islands, from 24 July to 3 August 1944. Fearlessly leaving his foxhole during a severe enemy counterattack the first night ashore, Private Surface pursued and disabled two hostile light tanks, boldly exposing himself to formidable Japanese fire to carry out his dangerous mission. By his daring courage and alert initiative, Private Surface contributed materially to the success of his unit at a critical stage of the operation, and his unflinching devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.