The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) George Elial Bush, Jr. (ASN: 0-17634), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 172d Infantry Regiment, 43d Infantry Division, in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 19 January 1943. In the attack upon a hill declared impregnable after previous unsuccessful attempts to reduce its fortifications, Lieutenant Colonel Bush planned and supervised the tactical maneuver of each company of his battalion. He was constantly at the forward positions of his battalion during the attack, exposing himself often to heavy artillery and mortar fire and grenade bursts. By his bravery and tactical skill Colonel Bush contributed greatly to the high morale of the troops under him, and the capture of the hill position with a minimum of casualties. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Bush, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.