The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) Robert Pennell (ASN: 0-22139), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 3d Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action at Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 19 January 1942. On his own initiative on that date, Captain Pennell organized and led a patrol to investigate the reported presence of an enemy force in the Abo-Abo River valley. By his courageous conduct in action and with total disregard for his own safety, Captain Pennell made a material contribution to the Bataan defense. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Pennell, 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.