The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Warrant Officer Claude Edward Looney (MCSN: WO-15806), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Leader of a Platoon of 37-mm. Guns, Weapons Company, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 4 March 1945. When a devastating barrage of hostile fire emanating from heavily fortified, well-concealed pillboxes and caves pinned down his entire Battalion, Warrant Officer Looney boldly charged forward under the blistering shellfire and, directing one of his guns to an elevated position for training against the emplacements, delivered a deadly rain of fire to destroy four cave entrenchments, three pillboxes and a large caliber dual purpose gun. Then, placing himself at the head of the infantry, he courageously led them forward, at the same time pointing out targets of opportunity for his own gunners and preventing them from firing on advancing friendly troops. Fatally struck down by a vicious shellburst as he continued his daring tactics, Warrant Officer Looney, by his forceful leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and steadfast determination in the face of tremendous odds, had served as an inspiration to his men in overrunning the positions and enabling his unit to reach its objective in the sustained drive to capture the island. His valiant devotion to duty throughout the bitterly fought campaign reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.