The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Peter Zikey Abdella (MCSN: 371654), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a telephone lineman while serving with the FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, 26 – 30 December 1943. Working courageously under the most hazardous conditions, Private Abdella constantly maintained an effective line of communication from the mortars to the mortar observation post, battalion observation post and the battalion command post. Undeterred by devastating hostile machinegun, rifle and mortar fire, he was instrumental in keeping the telephone lines intact, thereby contributing materially to the successful operation of our forces in this strategic area. Private Abdella’s daring aggressiveness, exceptional fortitude and unwavering devotion to duty were an inspiration to his comrades and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.