The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Brigadier General Oscar Ray Cauldwell (MCSN: 0-156), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Division Commander, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of the Koromokima Lagoon, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, November 7, 1943. Realizing the acute dangers facing expected Army reinforcements, Brigadier General Cauldwell proceeded in the face of concentrated enemy rifle and machine-gun fire to an advance command post which was at that time only seventy-five yards behind the front lines. When Japanese snipers armed with machine guns infiltrated through to the command post, engaging headquarters personnel in a fire fight, Brigadier General Cauldwell remained at his position despite the lack of cover or protection from hostile fire, advising and assisting the launching of a coordinated attack which ultimately destroyed the hostile forces. Ignoring torrential rains and defying enemy opposition, he refused to leave the scene of battle until the flank of the beachhead had been secured. His resolute determination, cool courage and inspiring devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.