The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Carl E. Coryell (MCSN: 339029), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 30 November 1943. With his company pinned down by shattering machine gun and rifle fire emanating from well-camouflaged hostile positions during fierce hostilities on D-Day, Sergeant Coryell repeatedly risked his life in a valiant effort to draw the fire to himself and locate the emplacements. Then, fearlessly leading his men forward he launched a series of bold determined attacks to destroy many heavily fortified strong points before he was seriously wounded by a bursting Japanese shell. By his forceful and inspiring leadership his dauntless perseverance and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Sergeant Coryell contributed materially to the success of an extremely perilous engagement and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.