The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private William M. Falbe (MCSN: 336504), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Tassafarong-Matanikau River Area, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on January 13, 1943. Courageously risking his life, Private Falbe with a companion, set out ahead of his lines on a hazardous voluntary mission to rescue two wounded marines. Dangerously exposed to intense enemy fire, the two men fought their way over a bullet-swept area and then into dense jungle undergrowth. Although his companion was killed on the way, Private Falbe, completely unaided, brought back the wounded marines to our lines, then gallantly returned for his comrade’s body bringing it back to safety. Through his unwavering courage and extreme fortitude, he saved the lives of two men who otherwise might have perished. His heroic conduct and valiant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.