The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant John Leroy Phelps (MCSN: 0-28502), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a platoon leader attached to Company H, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands on 4 March 1945. Coolly exposing himself to continuous enemy rifle fire as he moved along the front line instructing his men in preparation for an assault upon a heavily defended Japanese position, First Lieutenant Phelps was struck twice by hostile fire. With indomitable fighting spirit and complete disregard for his mortal wounds, he remained to direct the scheduled attack and although exposed to further injury continued to give orders to his platoon until too weak to continue. Only when the attack was successfully launched and the area made secure from Japanese aggression did he permit his litter bearers to carry him to a station of safety. His devotion to duty and valiant leadership in battle reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Phelps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.