The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John H. Morgan, Jr. (MCSN: 318039), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Weapons Company, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, 20 November 1943. When an enemy tank approached our lines, Sergeant Morgan unhesitatingly moved forward with a 37-mm. gun and succeeded in destroying the hostile vehicle. Despite wounds sustained during the action, he remained with his squad until ordered to evacuate. His resolute fortitude and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.