The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Robert A. Herron (MCSN: 0-13067), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Battalion Liaison Officer while attached to the First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division in combat against numerically superior Japanese forces in the Koromokina River Area, Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands on November 7, 1943. During an attack against a well camouflaged and strongly entrenched enemy, First Lieutenant Herron discovered that hostile machine gun and sniper fire had pinned down a rifle platoon killing or wounding the leader and sergeants and, without hesitation, assumed command. Determined to learn the disposition of enemy forces obstructing their advance, First Lieutenant Herron faced intense enemy fire to enter the dense jungle undergrowth and conduct a successful reconnaissance, killing five Japanese during this action. Returning to his platoon with the vital information he immediately ordered an attack but, while charging forward was mortally wounded by enemy fire. His men, inspired by his brilliant leadership and self-sacrificing efforts unhesitatingly advanced into Japanese emplacements and effectively destroyed all resistance. The splendid initiative and extremely heroic conduct of First Lieutenant Herron in carrying out his mission contributed immeasurably to the success of these vital operations and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.