The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Conley S. Louis (MCSN: 340358), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area, 23 – 24 October 1942. When the enemy launched a night tank supported by heavy machine-gun and mortar fire, Private First Class Louis, driving one of the half-track tank destroyers, operated his vehicle with keen initiative and excellent judgment against three hostile tanks in front of his position and one that had escaped to the rear of his lines. Despite great difficulties imposed by darkness, smoke, and dense jungle growth which restricted the maneuverability of the half-track, Private First Class Louis, by his dauntless courage and rare professional skill, enabled his crew to bring effective fire against the enemy, thereby contributing materially to the destruction of all the tanks. His exemplary conduct and unswerving devotion to duty under extremely adverse conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.