The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Arthur C. Falla (MCSN: 331945), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a squad leader serving with the FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain on January 25, 1944. Cut off from friendly troops on a strip of beach, Sergeant Falla fearlessly exposed himself to a direct line of hostile fire and signaled by semaphore to the main body for orders. When a half-track landed on the beach, Sergeant Falla boldly advanced under fire with his squad, silencing two enemy machine guns and, despite serious wounds received during the action, led his men to safety. His daring initiative, unwavering determination and heroic devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.