The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William P. Cain (MCSN: 273878), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the THIRD Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on December 22, 1943. Voluntarily risking his life to effect the rescue of a wounded comrade lying approximately fifty yards beyond his own lines, Corporal Cain courageously proceeded up a steep hill in the face of devastating hostile fire and, with the assistance of a companion, succeeded in removing the injured Marine to safety. After returning from his perilous rescue mission, he gallantly took a position with the rear guard and effectively protected stretcher bearers as they completed evacuation of casualties. Corporal Cain’s courageous initiative, daring aggressiveness and great personal valor despite tremendous odds contributed to the probable saving of many lives and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.