The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Robert L. Whitehead (MCSN: 461640), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a squad leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-eight Marines, FIFTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 12 March 1945. Leading a group of seven men in an aggressive attack against a heavy concentration of well concealed hostile machine gun and rifle positions which were holding up the advance of our troops with intense grazing fire, Sergeant Whitehead courageously advanced alone after nearing the enemy positions and boldly attached each strong point single handedly. Continuing his daring actions until severely wounded, he succeeded in inflicting severe damage on several emplacements and in forcing the Japanese to reveal their positions to our troops. To permit his men to follow up in the attack, Sergeant Whitehead steadfastly refused medical aid from others and although suffering from intense pain and shock, made his way to the Battalion Aid Station alone. His leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and determination were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.