The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant James Scondras (MCSN: 0-22226), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Forward Observer, attached to Battery D, Second Battalion, Twelfth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 22 February 1945. Fearlessly supporting advancing infantrymen when they were subjected to sudden vicious attack by several hostile artillery pieces, heavy mortars and rockets upon gaining the edge of the airstrip, First Lieutenant Scondras boldly pressed forward against the withering barrage to the top of a steep, jagged cliff where he could better observe the enemy and, remaining steadfast in the exposed position, simultaneously adjusted and directed accurate artillery and naval gunfire bombardments to silence the concentrations and enable the infantry to continue the advance. By his daring initiative, aggressive determination and intrepid courage, maintained in the face of extreme danger, First Lieutenant Scondras contributed materially to the success of the bitterly fought Iwo campaign and his valiant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.