The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Major Glenn E. Fissel (MCSN: 0-5621), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Executive Officer of the Second Battalion, Twenty-First Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of the Coconut Grove, Bougainville Island, British Solomon Islands, on 13 November 1943. After proceeding to the front lines and directing a company of his battalion into position for an attack, Major Fissel received word that one of his men lay seriously wounded in an exposed position near hostile gun emplacements. Although fully aware of the danger, he ordered his runner to take cover and advanced alone under withering blasts of enemy machine-gun and rifle fire in an attempt to rescue the helpless man. Wounded by hostile sniper fire and unable to continue his rescue efforts, Major Fissel was again under attack and killed by Japanese fire while an evacuation party was attempting to remove him. His inspiring leadership and courageous disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.