The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Harry A. Cook (MCSN: 460989), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rocket Launcher Operator of Company D, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 16 September 1944. During an enemy bank counter attack Private First Class Cook boldly moved into a position from which he could ring the most effective fire to bear on an oncoming tank and after firing several rounds, completely disabled the hostile vehicle. Later, again braving intense enemy fire, Private First Class Cook crawled out in front of the lines to bring in a wounded comrade and, although wounded in both legs refused to be evacuated until all other casualties had been removed. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.