The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant Harry W. Sala (MCSN: 366047), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Platoon Sergeant of a Rifle Platoon in Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 5 and 6 March 1945. When his platoon leader became a casualty during a bitter engagement with a fanatic enemy on 5 March, Platoon Sergeant Sala unhesitatingly assumed command and, despite the extremely hazardous conditions, continued to direct the advance with superb skill and daring. With his company subsequently pinned down by shattering hostile machine-gun, mortar and small-arms fire emanating from a strongly fortified pillbox, he steadily advanced a distance of fifty yards through the deadly barrage and, ferociously charged the position, silenced the weapons and accounted for four of the Japanese. Continuing his bold tactics, he repeatedly faced fierce opposition to press his attack, gallantly leading his platoon forward and consolidating the lines to enable his company to gain its objective and occupy key terrain in the sustained advance across the island. Fatally struck down by machine-gun fire while directing an attack the following day, Platoon Sergeant Sala, by his forceful leadership, fearless initiative and indomitable fighting spirit, had contributed materially to the success of the bitterly fought Iwo Campaign and his valiant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.