The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Lawrence M. Ferguson (MCSN: 342389), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while a member of the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on August 18 and 29, 1942. When fires were started in the regimental munitions dump, Corporal Ferguson, unhesitatingly and on his own initiative, risked his life in the midst of exploding shells and burning gasoline to fight and control fires, thus preventing the loss of many lives and much essential material. His courageous devotion to duty reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.