The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John E. Rowe (MCSN: 225427), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company G, Second Battalion Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, September 14, 1942. While his company was retiring before a hostile onslaught against the island airfield, Private First Class Rowe, with courageous disregard for his own personal safety, remained behind to delay the enemy’s advance by means of hand grenades and effective rifle fire. While bravely holding to his position in the face of a fierce bayonet assault, he was seriously wounded. His heroic conduct, maintained at great risk in the face of grave danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.