The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Harry L. Torgerson (MCSN: 0-5773), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the First Parachute Battalion, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Gavutu, Solomon Islands on August 7 to 9, 1942. While conducting hazardous demolition projects which involved action against dugouts still occupied by the enemy, Captain Torgerson with valiant disregard for his imminent danger executed his essential duties with outstanding skill and dauntless courage. Although sustaining a painful wound in his left wrist he persevered until he had destroyed the designated hostile positions thereby completing with success an exacting assignment. Captain Torgerson’s unswerving devotion to duty served as an inspiration to his men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.