The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Elmer A. Rucker (MCSN: 458767), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands, 9 October 1944. Unhesitatingly advancing to the aid of a fellow Marine hit in the leg by enemy gunfire, Private First Class Ricker skillfully applied a tourniquet and despite a wound subsequently received in his own arm from hostile fire, remained steadfast in the exposed position to keep the tourniquet in place until further aid arrived. By his untiring efforts and heroic conduct, Private First Class Rucker undoubtedly saved the life of a comrade and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.