The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Platoon Sergeant James J. Weisgerber (MCSN: 402197), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as non-commissioned Officer in Charge of a Reconnaissance Party of Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, FOURTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands from 16 to 19 February 1945. In charge of a section of swimmers, Platoon Sergeant Weisgerber led his group on a preliminary survey of the enemy’s beaches and, despite heavy hostile artillery, mortar and small arms fire which caused severe casualties in hi section, successfully completed this hazardous mission which contributed materially to the subsequent saving of many lives. By his leadership, courage and devotion to duty in the face of grave peril he upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.