The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Donald V. Sandager (MCSN: 0-11621), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Air Observer for a Marine Artillery Group of the Ninth Defense Battalion operating in the Solomon Islands Area from 31 August to 3 October 1943. Volunteering to act as spotter for the artillery bombardment of enemy installations on Kolombangara Islands, First Lieutenant Sandager remained cool and steadfast throughout numerous missions, often carried out at low altitude against heavy antiaircraft opposition, adjusting fire on hostile installations accurately and with outstanding skill in spite of the constant threat of attack by Japanese fighter planes. During one flight when his craft developed engine trouble and nearly crashed, he returned to base, obtained another plane and immediately resumed his duties as observer. By his exceptional ability and undaunted perseverance, First Lieutenant Sandager contributed in a large measure to the ultimate destruction of enemy positions and his loyal devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.