The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Maurice J. Manuel (MCSN: 331279), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Second Marines, Reinforced, in combat against Japanese forces between the Matanikau and Poa Rivers on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, On November 10, 1942. Voluntarily leaving cover and crossing a grassy knoll, Private First Class Manuel, despite heavy enemy machine-gun fire, made repeated efforts to rescue injured comrades. After getting one of his severely injured companions to safety, Private First Manuel was himself fatally wounded. His cool courage and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.