The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Gunnery Sergeant Hugh M. Jolley (MCSN: 187456), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during combat against enemy Japanese surface forces in the Solomon Islands Area on the night of October 13, 1942. When incendiary shells from enemy ships exploded near the quartermaster storeroom tent in the bivouac area of his battalion, Master Gunnery Sergeant Jolley, on his own initiative, hastened to the scene of the blaze and directed the fire-fighting activities of several other men in the vicinity. With the illuminated area a target for continuous bombardment, he and another marine remained staunchly at their post, working tirelessly until the fire was extinguished. His bravery and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.