The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant James W. Horton (MCSN: 0-8825), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader, Weapons Company, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Guadalcanal Area on the night of 13 – 14 September 1942. With utter disregard for his own life, Second Lieutenant Horton remained in a completely exposed position during heavy enemy shelling in order that he might administer first aid to a seriously injured enlisted man. His prompt action and effective treatment were decisive factors in saving this man’s life.