The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Edward J. Bontkowski (MCSN: 853742), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of Company B, Fifth Engineer Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 11 March 1946. With the advance of the infantry held up by heavy enemy fire from a pillbox ahead of their lines, Corporal Bontkowski volunteered to go forward to destroy the pillbox with explosives, although realizing the extreme risk involved. After successfully completing this mission, he returned to friendly lines and shortly thereafter went forward again and helped to drag a wounded Marine to safety. His courage, initiative and perseverance under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.