The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Assistant Cook Joseph J. Mayher (MCSN: 398478), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Depot Company A, Branch Number Three, Fourth Base Depot, First Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, 1 October 1943. When aerial bombs hit and set afire an LST unloading on the beach, Assistant Cook Mayher repeatedly boarded the vessel to assist in salvage operations despite the danger from exploding gasoline and ammunition. Leading a fire fighting crew deep into the hold of the ship, he manned the hose himself until the pump failed. While aiding in attempts to salvage medical supplies, he received multiple shrapnel wounds during a second enemy air attack. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Assistant Cook Mayher and the United States Naval Service.