Oliver L. Howard Jr.

Private, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Oliver L. Howard, Jr. (MCSN: 821177), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, Third Marne Raider Battalion during a landing on Puruata Island, Solomon Islands on 1 November 1943.
When a fierce barrage of enemy mortar fire wounded his team leader and forced his comrades to withdraw to the rear, Private Howard heroically disregarded his own injuries, voluntarily remaining with the disabled man to protect him from capture or death at the hands of Japanese patrols.
Constantly vigilant for two grueling hours until a party of stretcher bearers arrived he skillfully assisted in the evacuation of wounded by protecting the rescue unit from hostile fire. Private Howard's courageous initiative and great personal valor in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.