The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Hamlin L. Kjelland (ASN: 20711280), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company G, 164th Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in action at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 29 March 1944. Staff Sergeant Kjelland unhesitatingly took charge of his platoon, after the officer and second in command had become casualties, and displayed outstanding courage and resourcefulness in organizing his men to fight off an enemy attack. His daring and fearless tenacity permitted two scouts to withdraw from an extremely dangerous position. Although wounded, Sergeant Kjelland continued in action, killing two Japanese soldiers during a bayonet charge on his positions. He refused to be evacuated until all his men had withdrawn to safety. His leadership and bravery not only saved the lives of two men but were responsible for the successful completion of the patrol’s mission. Staff Sergeant Kjelland’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.