The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Bernard R. Doherty (MCSN: 305826), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, on December 12, 1943. In charge of a squad which was cut off from the remainder of his platoon during an assault on a strong enemy position, Sergeant Doherty boldly led his men forward under severe Japanese fire in a continuation of the assault. Although killed during this fierce encounter, Sergeant Doherty, by his aggressive fighting spirit, had caused the hostile forces to disclose the disposition of their weapons and had enabled his platoon to accomplish its hazardous mission. His heroic initiative and daring throughout the engagement were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.