The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Fenwicke W. Holmes (MCSN: 0-8385), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Depot Company A, Branch Number Three, Fourth Base Depot, First Marine Amphibious Corps in action against enemy Japanese forces on Villa Lavella, Solomon Islands on 1 October 1943. When aerial bombs hit and set afire an LST unloading on the beach, Captain Holmes led his men into the burning hold of the ship despite the grave danger from exploding shells and gasoline. After directing and assisting in salvage operations and evacuation of casualties, he led a detail onto the upper deck and threw ammunition overboard to prevent the spread of further explosions. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Captain Holmes and the United States Naval Service.