The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Arthur B. Gardner, Jr. (MCSN: 0-15850), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the FIRST Marine Division during combat against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, January 2, 1944. When his platoon became pinned down at a river crossing by heavy enemy machine-gun fire from well-concealed encampments which inflicted serious casualties, Second Lieutenant Gardner unhesitatingly made his way forward over difficult terrain to assist in extricating his men. Courageously remaining exposed to hostile fire, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, he succeeded in withdrawing his command to a position of safety before he himself was mortally injured. Second Lieutenant Gardner’s determined leadership and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.