The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Dyer L. Clayton (ASN: 38424799), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 15 March 1944. When all attempts had failed to destroy a Japanese machine gun emplacement which hampered further progress and prevented the restoration of protective wires, he dashed into the enemy’s field of fire and hurled grenades into the position, killing the gun crew and five riflemen who fought desperately to hold the strategic strongpoint. Then, to make certain the gun was not again manned by enemy replacements, he dragged it back to the American lines. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Clayton, 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.