The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Gordon H. Turner (MCSN: 365547), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island, Mariana Islands. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Corporal Turner rendered valiant service during the invasion of this strategically important island and by his technical skill and outstanding conduct contributed materially to the success of a vital campaign. ON 1 July 1944, his platoon was pinned down by heavy enemy machine gun fire and Corporal Turner utterly disregarding his own safety fired anti-tank grenades from his rifle and destroyed the gun but was killed by hostile sniper fire. His self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Corporal Gordon H. Turner gallantly gave his live for his country.