The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Kenneth W. Clark (MCSN: 352632), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Eighth Marines, Reinforced in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal Island, Solomon Islands 2 – 4 January 1943. During this period of intense patrol activity Private Clark with utter disregard for his own personal safety repeatedly rushed enemy occupied positions, killing the occupants and capturing or destroying arms and ammunition. He voluntarily engaged in these activities fully aware that once he entered hostile territory the supporting fire of his comrades could no longer cover his actions. Private Clark’s daring courage and valiant devotion to duty under extremely hazardous conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.