The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal David F. Travis (MCSN: 814521), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with a Rifle Platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 21 May 1945. Although painfully injured, Corporal Travis assumed command of his platoon after the Leader was wounded and receiving the order to retire from an untenable position, skillfully and successfully directed the withdrawal of his men. Firing rifle grenades while retiring, he personally destroyed a hostile machine gun and mortar killing several of the enemy. His outstanding leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.