The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Edgar M. Culp (MCSN: 0-20198), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader attached to Company I, Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 20 November 1943. Seriously wounded while leading his platoon across an open fire swept airstrip during fierce hostilities on D-Day, Second Lieutenant Culp dauntlessly continued the advance against the fanatic Japanese. Struck a second time when the enemy launched a terrific mortar barrage against his position and scattered his unit he refused to be evacuated from the front lines despite his intense pain and promptly reorganizing his men continued to lead them in determined attacks until ordered by his commanding officer to withdraw to the rear for medical treatment. By his forceful and inspiring leadership, great personal valor and cool and courageous action in the face of tremendous odds, Second Lieutenant Culp contributed immeasurable to the success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.