The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Willard J. Wright (MCSN: 346827), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as platoon Sergeant of Company E, Second Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Saipan, Mariana Islands on 25 June 1944. When part of his platoon was caught between enemy cross-fire during the battle for Mount Tapotchau, making necessary a withdrawal to better cover, Sergeant Wright exposed himself to the heavy hostile barrage in order to spot friendly mortar smoke shells and direct the organized withdrawal of his men. Although wounded during this action he picked up a casualty and carried him to safety after all others had reached cover. His outstanding leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.