The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Peter M. Connolly (MCSN: 416124), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Gunner while serving with the Marine Detachment, U.S.S. SANT FE (CL-60), in action against enemy Japanese aerial forces in Central Pacific waters on 16 October 1944. While under a heavy enemy air attack Private First Class Connolly skillfully brought an enemy plane under fire and despite the grave danger as the hostile craft plunged directly toward his station maintained steady fire until it crashed near his gun. By his outstanding skill, courage and fearless devotion to duty, Private First Class Connolly contributed materially to the successful operation of his ship thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.