The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Melvin Greathouse (MCSN: 860446), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Amphibian Truck Driver serving with the Fifth Amphibian Truck Company, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 20 February 1945. Assigned the hazardous mission of unloading artillery ammunition and a field piece, Private First Class Greathouse unhesitatingly set about the task in the face of terrific enemy artillery and mortar fire and worked steadily despite the grave hazards until his truck was hit by hostile fire and he was seriously wounded. Disregarding the intense pain of his wounds, he remained steadfast at his post of duty and continued unloading the urgently needed ammunition from his burning truck until struck down, mortally wounded by a second hit from enemy mortar fire. By his determined perseverance, cool courage and unswerving devotion to duty in the performance of a vital task, Private First Class Greathouse upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.