The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Melvin A. Traylor, Jr. (MCSN: 0-142277), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an artillery forward observer attached to a Marine infantry patrol in the Second Battalion, Second Marines, Reinforced during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on December 27, 1942. In order to reach a position from which he could better control artillery fire, Second Lieutenant Traylor at his own request and with complete disregard for his personal safety accompanied an advance patrol into exceedingly dangerous territory in front of his lines. When the only infantry office present was killed as a result of heavy enemy fire, Second Lieutenant Traylor immediately assumed command of the patrol and by his inspiring leadership and indomitable courage, kept it in tack as a fighting unit. Through effective and accurate direction of artillery fire, he was later able to render vital aid in neutralizing the heavy enemy resistance. His resolute determination and valiant devotion to duty under extremely adverse conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.