The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Frank N. Zserdin (MCSN: 325724), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 21 September 1944. Leading his squad during the bitter hostilities on the northern section of the island, Sergeant Zserdin defended the Umurbrogal Mountain sector against a powerful enemy pre-dawn counterattack. Fighting his gun with determined aggressiveness, he rushed forward in defiance of withering fire to aid in halting the enemy and cover the evacuation of casualties and, although himself wounded while carrying out this hazardous task, remained steadfast at his post performing his duties continuously and efficiently and was instrumental in repelling the attack. Leading his men later the same day, he pressed relentlessly on, braving the savage fire from Japanese gun emplacements until mortally wounded. By his resolute and tenacious devotion to duty. Sergeant Zserdin contributed materially to the conquest of this vital enemy stronghold, and his valiant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.