The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Robert H. Dillard (MCSN: 0-6709), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in the British Solomon Islands on 3 November 1942. Captain Dillard was attached temporarily to a battalion in command of one section of guns from Weapons Company, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division. Captain Dillard displayed the utmost ability and efficiency in tactical employment of his guns and they were pushed forward on a line with the assault units of the company, sweeping the area occupied by the enemy with canister and playing a very important part in causing the enemy to fall back to the beach while the infantry closed in on them. During the heat of battle, the officers and senior noncommissioned officers of this infantry company all became casualties. Captain Dillard was immediately ordered to take charge of this company in addition to his gun section which he did in a most commendable manner and directed the final stages of the assault and the mopping up operations. Although the area was being swept by enemy machine gun and mortar fire during the entire operation, Captain Dillard carried out his duties with greatest efficiency and display of force and leadership with total disregard for his personal safety.