The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Ernest Clancy (MCSN: 881944), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Bulldozer Operator of Company C, First Pioneer Battalion, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 18 September 1944. Called upon to maneuver his bulldozer into position to destroy an enemy pillbox which had halted the advance of our troops, Corporal Clancy braved machine gun fire and grenades and succeeded in destroying the enemy position and crushing its occupants. When a Japanese soldier rushed him with a bayonet while he was advancing against the emplacement, he coolly drew his pistol and shot the interceptor. His skill, courage and aggressive devotion to duty were contributing factors in the advance of his unit and reflect great credit on Corporal Clancy and the United States Naval Service.