The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Edward Vagoun (MCSN: 0-15643), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 14 May 1945. Subjected to intense enemy fire which halted the forward displacement and wounded the company commander during the execution of a passage of lines, First Lieutenant Vagoun immediately assumed command. Refusing to be evacuated despite a painful wound sustained a few minutes later, he skillfully reorganized his company and, with a minimum loss of time, moved it into a position from which the passage of lines could be effected, personally reconnoitering the forward area infested by Japanese snipers and heavy mortar fire in an attempt to locate the enemy positions. His bravery, cool determination and loyalty served as an inspiration to the men of his command and reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Vagoun and the United States Naval Service.