The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Robert S. Keith (MCSN: 0-9676), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Company K, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Piva Forks Area, Bougainville, British Solomon Islands, on 24 November 1943. When the officers of an adjacent company were mortally wounded, Captain Keith assumed command of the men, skillfully reorganizing the unit and establishing a strong point on the battalion’s flank. Although he was severely wounded during an engagement with the enemy, he steadfastly refused evacuation, directing his men in repelling Japanese forces attempting to turn the battalion flank and, on several occasions, proceeding beyond the front lines under intense enemy fire to rescue wounded Marines. With his company ordered to another section, Captain Keith, unable to walk as a result of his wounds, dispatched his available men upon their new mission and remained throughout the night with fourteen other wounded men, guarding a trail affording access to our flank positions. Successful in warding off repeated attacks despite continuous harassing sniper fire, he prevented Japanese penetration of his battalion’s vital supply lines. By his fearless leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave danger, Captain Keith contributed to the success of our operations on the strategic island of Bougainville, and his courageous conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.