The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Clifford L. Parmley (MCSN: 366339), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Third Marine Raider Battalion during a landing on Puruata Island, Solomon Islands on 1 November 1943. When enemy forces suddenly launched a vicious attack in an attempt to turn the right flank of his platoon during an assault upon three strongly defended hostile pill boxes, Sergeant Parmley realized that difficult terrain and battle conditions prevented his platoon leader and sergeant in their position on the left side from becoming aware of the enemy flanking movement. Although suffering from serious wounds received earlier in the action he unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense hostile fire, directing the defensive action of our troops with such forceful leadership and skill that the enemy attack was completely frustrated. Sergeant Parmley’s courageous initiative and valiant disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.