The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Robert Atticks Black, Sr. (MCSN: 0-5059), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Wing Communications Officer of the FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing in combat against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, from 24 September to 9 November 1942. Despite frequent hostile air attacks and shelling by Japanese surface vessels, Major Black worked repeatedly in exposed positions to effect emergency repairs to the communications system linking all ground and air units on the island. His great courage and fearless devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.