The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Edward J. Ludwig, Jr. (MCSN: 476396), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action on enemy Japanese-held Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 26 February 1945. With the advance of his platoon halted by an enemy machine gun well protected by other gun positions in the vicinity, Private First Class Ludwig went forward alone to take up an exposed firing position and deliver fire on the hostile emplacement, thereby permitting his platoon to advance to its objective. Killed by snipe fire during this action, Private First Class Ludwig, by his courage and self-sacrificing devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.