The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain John A. Titcomb (MCSN: 0-21625), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to a Marine Air Support Party serving with the United States Army Forces during action against enemy Japanese forces in Northern Luzon, Philippine Islands on 1 March 1945. Setting up his radio equipment and expeditiously establishing his observation post in a dangerously exposed position affording coverage of the target area during a vigorous assault against heavily fortified Bacsil Ridge, Captain Titcomb fearlessly risking his life to observe and command the close air support of our aircraft and remaining steadfast at his post under the enemy’s shattering machine gun and sniper fire expertly directed our planes in pressing home brilliantly executed attacks against a fanatic enemy, thereby enabling our infantry units to advance and seize the assigned objectives. By his forceful and determined leadership dauntless perseverance and indomitable fighting spirit during this and numerous other engagements in guerrilla warfare carried out behind Japanese lines, Captain Titcomb contributed materially to the success of our sustained drive against the enemy in the Pacific Theater and his constant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.