The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Francis B. Lane (MCSN: 0-30398), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Leader of Company K, Third Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forced at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 21 to 24 February 1945. Courageously leading his platoon in a daring strike against the heavily fortified, deeply entrenched enemy on Motoyama Airfield Number Two, Second Lieutenant Lane boldly pressed forward against fanatic hostile resistance, fighting Japanese pillboxes to extend the line of advance to the edge of the field. Undaunted by the continued shelling he promptly reorganized his platoon and prepared to push the attack across the fire-swept airstrip and, constantly exposing himself to the withering barrage as he directed his men to the objective, staunchly continued his forward drive until fatally struck down by a bursting shell. Inspired by his forceful leadership, valiant spirit and unwavering zeal, Second Lieutenant Lane’s intrepid men relentlessly laid down terrific supporting shellfire against the enemy flank, enabling the adjacent company to move forward and thereby contributing to the success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold. His fearless conduct and self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout the bitter engagement reflect the highest credit upon Second Lieutenant Lane and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.