The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Thomas Pilleri (MCSN: 354727), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action, in connection with operations against the enemy at Guadalcanal on 13 and 14 September 1942. Private First Class Pilleri was manning a machine gun for the all-volunteer, forward element listening post when a Japanese Battalion initiated a full scale assault to overrun the Marine control of Henderson Field. In the ensuing heavy fire fight, Private First Class Pilleri heroically remained at his station to cover the ordered withdrawal to the unit perimeter. Due to the lethal fire he provided against the enveloping enemy the other members of the post were able to withdraw, the Japanese surge was checked and the defensive positions were altered to maximum readiness. Private First Class Pilleri’s actions ultimately cost him his life, but helped saved the lives of other members of his unit and also helped the 11th Marines to repulse the Japanese attack. By his initiative courageous actions and complete dedication to duty, Private first Class Pilleri reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.