The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Herbert C. Buettgen (MCSN: 438707), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Weapons Company, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division during the landing on Puruata Island, British Solomon Islands, on November 1, 1943. Serving as a member of the five-man crew of a 75 millimeter self-propelled anti-tank gun, Private First Class Buettgen unhesitatingly advanced into the jungle to assist in reducing an enemy position of three strongly defended pill boxes well protected by hostile snipers. Despite the gun’s limited armor protection, ineffective against intense enemy opposition, he pressed home a vigorous attack and kept his weapon in action until he was killed by hostile fire. Private First Class Buettgen’s great personal valor and tenacious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.