The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Robert L. Siefert (MCSN: 367294), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 21 November 1943. After moving across the airfield with assaulting companies to capture a series of trenches on the south coast of the island, Private First Class Seifert immediately pressed forward and set up his machine gun in an exposed position without the usual protection of riflemen to cover the advance of his company following up in reserve. Promptly going into action alone, he delivered a steady stream of fire against the enemy and, despite wounds received during the fierce action, continued to keep the hostile fire silenced and thereby enabled his unit to cross the airstrip with a minimum of casualties. By his daring initiative, dauntless perseverance, and cool courage at great personal risk, Private First Class Seifert was instrumental in effecting the success achieved by his company in reinforcing assault units then under heavy counterattack from the east flank. His unwavering devotion to duty throughout the fierce hostilities was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.