The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunnery Sergeant Jared J. Hooper (MCSN: 266960), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Headquarters Company, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands from 20 to 24 November 1943. With his Platoon Leader mortally wounded during a fierce engagement with the Japanese, Gunnery Sergeant Hooper immediately assumed command and, effecting a skillful reorganization of his unit under the enemy’s incessant shellfire, led his men in repeated attacks against heavily fortified hostile strong points, tirelessly continuing his valiant efforts without rest for two days and nights of bitter offensive action. By his daring initiative, his forceful and determined leadership and indomitable fighting spirit maintained against tremendous odds, Gunnery Sergeant Hooper contributed essentially to the final victory on Betio Island and to the success of our forces in capturing this important Japanese atoll and his zealous devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.