The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Howell T. Heflin (MCSN: 0-13956), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of an Assault Platoon attached to a company of the First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division during the Battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands on November 25, 1943. When his men were subjected to intense fire from hostile mortars and automatic weapons while advancing on a strongly organized and defended Japanese position, First Lieutenant Heflin promptly and skillfully deployed his platoon and courageously led it through difficult jungle terrain under a barrage of grenades and gunfire to the edge of the enemy’s position. Directing his troops in a vigorous, prolonged battle, he frequently exposed himself to devastating fire at close range in order to control the attack more effectively and, by his unflinching determination and aggressive fighting spirit, contributed materially to the defeat of the enemy and the attainment of his company’s objective. First Lieutenant Heflin’s expert leadership and fearless conduct under extremely hazardous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.