The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Alva E. Gipe, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action while temporarily attached to the FIRST Marine Division as an Amphibious Scout. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Gipe landed on a strongly fortified enemy beachhead on the night of 20 November 1943 and proceeded inland with his patrol to observe enemy activities. He was successful in obtaining information of vital importance to the success of our operations in that area. 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 and the United States Naval Service.