The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Merritt James Zimmerman (MCSN: 982468), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with a Rifle Squad, of Company G, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 15 April 1945. Determined to locate the position of an enemy gun which was delivering devastating fire upon his advancing squad with resultant heavy casualties, Private Zimmerman unhesitatingly advanced in the face of the furious onslaught to locate the strategic hostile emplacement. Courageously drawing the enemy fire to himself, he made possible the escape of his wounded comrades and enabled his squad to continue the advance in safety. Although he, himself was struck down and instantly killed, Private Zimmerman, by his splendid initiative, cool courage and self sacrificing devotion to duty had contributed materially to the success of his company’s mission and his conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.