The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Spencer F. Barber (MCSN: 0-8616), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Battery B, First Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, 21 November 1943. Although still in a weakened condition as a result of an emergency operation performed at sea, Captain Barber insisted on accompanying his artillery battery ashore and, landing across the difficult coral reef under heavy, persistent enemy fire, courageously and with expert tactical skill moved his command into position and delivered effective supporting fire despite the constant harassing of Japanese snipers. Captain Barber’s inspiring leadership, fearless conduct and tenacious devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.