The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Robert J. Wheeler (ASN: 6936771), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 January 1943, at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. An enemy sniper located about 300 yards from an artillery observation post had disrupted operations at this location. Corporal Wheeler, accompanied by another non-commissioned officer, worked his way forward over open terrain exposed to enemy fire to within 100 yards of the enemy where the two opened fire and killed the sniper. This display of gallantry enabled the observation post to resume its operations against the enemy without withdrawing to a new location. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.