The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant William E. Tatom (MCSN: 0-8920), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the Third Battalion, Second Marines, Reinforced in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion of Tanambogo, Solomon Islands on August 7-9, 1942. Although he sustained a painful wound while participating in a precarious landing, Second Lieutenant Tatom continued the execution of his essential duties, courageously disregarding his own serious condition. With resoluteness of purpose he directed his men in comb at and fought with them against the enemy until he collapsed from pain and suffering. His tenacious determination and relentless fighting spirit maintained under difficult and hazardous circumstances contributed immeasurably to the success of our forces on Tanambogo Island and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.