The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Sergeant Vernon L. Hendley (MCSN: 240674), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action, on January 15, 1943 at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. After his platoon was evacuated for illness, he took command and personally led his platoon into action in the ravine west of Pint Cruz, to destroy enemy emplacements and at all times fought bravely. He personally captured three light machine guns and other weapons, sustaining no losses.