The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Chester Helmick Curtis (MCSN: 930018), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 16 March 1945. Attempting the seemingly impossible task of rescuing four wounded men lying helpless in a fire lane, Private Curtis courageously left his company and worked his way through the heavy enemy rifle fire to the casualties. After rendering urgently needed first aid he then found the safest route of return and skillfully directing the laying of a concealing smoke screen, supervised the evacuation of the men to safety. Mortally wounded during this heroic mission Private Curtis, by his courage, aggressiveness and inspiring devotion to duty, saved the lives of his fellow comrades and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.