The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private John M. Whiffen (MCSN: 491032), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifleman serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-ninth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands on 26 June 1944. When an incalculable number of Japanese troops were holding up the advance of his company in its attack on Mountain Tapotchau, Private Whiffen volunteered to scout out the enemy. Deliberately disregarding his own safety, he daringly entered a dangerous area in an effort to draw hostile fire and although mortally wounded, was able to send valuable information back to his company and was thereby instrumental in continuing his company’s advance without casualties. His self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private Whiffen and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.