The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Anton J. Mikut (MCSN: 439965), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the THIRD Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Empress Augusta Bay Area, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 20 November 1943. As driver of an assault tank in a light tank column carrying supplies to front line troops, Corporal Mikut suffered serious wounds when the column was attacked by Japanese infantry near the battle line. Despite intense pain, he remained at the controls, continuing to operate his tank under a heavy barrage of enemy fire until he reached a place of safety. Corporal Mikut’s resolute courage and vigilant devotion to duty prevented the tank from being immobilized under heavy fire, and his gallant conduct during this hazardous action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.