The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain Edward V. Stephenson (MCSN: 0-11078), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 28 February to 4 March 1945. When his attack on a strongly fortified hostile position was halted and disorganized by the fire from four concealed enemy tanks on 28 February, Captain Stephenson went forward through heavy rifle, machine-gun and cannon barrages to lead an attack on the tanks with flame throwers and rocket launchers. Completely destroying two tanks, scoring damaging hits on a third and causing a fourth to flee, he quickly reorganized his company and continued the assault. On 4 March, with the advance of his left flank halted by point-blank fire from a heavy fieldpiece, he immediately went forward of his front lines in an attempt to locate the source of the Japanese fire, persevering until he fell, mortally wounded. By his inspiring leadership and great personal courage throughout, Captain Stephenson contributed to the success of his company and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.