The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Harold H. Cathor (MCSN: 372103), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, 30 December 1943. Assuming a firing position on the crest of a ridge covered by intense enemy fire, Private First Class Cathor manned his gun with fierce determination and personally accounted for eleven Japanese before his supply of ammunition was exhausted. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, he maintained his hazardous station, directing 60-mm. mortar fire against the hostile emplacements with devastating results. Private First Class Cathor’s daring initiative and selfless devotion to duty at the risk of his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.