The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Francis J. Dyar (MCSN 328924), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while a member of the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 18 and 29 August 1942. When fires were started in the regimental munitions dump, Private First Class Dyar, unhesitatingly and on his own initiative, risked his life in the midst of exploding shells and burning gasoline to fight and control fires, thus preventing the loss of many lives and much essential material. His courageous devotion to duty reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.