The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Warren A. Rausch (MCSN: 303472), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifleman, serving with Headquarters Company, Twenty-eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 19 and 20 February 1945. After landing on the heavily fortified beachhead on D-Day against fanatic hostile resistance, Private First Class Rausch unhesitatingly volunteered to attempt to wipe out a series of Japanese pillboxes threatening the security of the Regimental Command Post and line of communications to the forward combat areas. Placing himself in the forefront of the attack, he fought his way through the withering hail of rifle, mortar and machine-gun fire and, launching a daring assault against each in turn, assisted in the silencing of six emplacements with heavy enemy losses. Continuing his bold tactics, he directed his comrades to provide covering fire as he advanced alone in an effort to destroy the occupants of a seventh bunker and, while carrying out his perilous mission was fatally struck down by a bursting mortar shell. By his courageous initiative, dauntless perseverance and indomitable fighting spirit maintained in the face of tremendous odds, Private First Class Rasuch contributed materially to the success of our initial operations against this vital enemy stronghold and his valiant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.