The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Robert K. Brown (MCSN: 335670), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Weapons Company, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division during the landing on Puruata Island, British Solomon Islands, on 1 November 1943. Serving as a member of the five-man crew of a 75 millimeter self-propelled anti-tank gun, Private Brown unhesitatingly advanced into the jungle to assist in reducing an enemy position of three strongly defended pillboxes well protected by hostile snipers. Despite the gun’s limited armor protection, ineffective against intense enemy opposition, he pressed home a vigorous attack and kept his weapon in action until he was killed by hostile fire. Private Brown’s great personal valor and tenacious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.