The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant Everett C. Henson (MCSN: 196528), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while a member of Company K, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Tenaru Sector, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands between September 13 and 17, 1942. Rendering invaluable service to his company commander in controlling the men, inexperienced in actual combat, Gunner Sergeant Henson led the men with inspiring fearlessness in bearing the brunt of the battle and repelling the attacking Japanese. Though wounded by shrapnel, he courageously remained at his post, directing mortar fire throughout enemy activity and, after being evacuated and treated, returned to his company until relieved. His coolness, skill and personal valor were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.