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 [then Private First Class] Alvin L. Knapp (ASN: 37027811), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company H, 164th Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 25 October 1942. Corporal Knapp courageously made three trips into hostile territory in order to assist in the hazardous rescue of eighteen wounded and exhausted Marines from an enemy ambuscade. His 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.