The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Neil R. Knight (MCSN: 426789), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, Second Tank Battalion, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 22 and 23 November 1943. With radio communications inoperative during this period of bitter offensive action, Private Knight repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy’s shattering barrages to carry vital messages between the Tank Battalion Command Post, tanks and infantry front line positions, contributing materially to the maintenance of tank unit communications and to the ultimate success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold. By his fearless determination, his outstanding fortitude and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Private Knight served as an inspiration to others in the area, and his zealous devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.