The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Edward J. Horn (MCSN: 400002), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Platoon Runner of Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-second Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade in action against enemy Japanese forces on Engebi and Parry Islands, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands from 18 to 23 February 1944. Replacing a gunner and his assistant when they were killed, Private First Class Horn manned a machine gun and although unfamiliar with the operation of the weapon, harassed the enemy throughout subsequent actions repelling numerous Japanese thrusts in his sector. On one occasion he ran to the beach, obtained ammunition and returned to his position to continue firing the gun. His initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.