The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Private First Class William E. Vahey (MCSN: 339602), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for gallantry in action at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, in taking charge of and directing the operation of the two machine guns in his section for the balance of an engagement when his section sergeant and squad leaders were wounded on 10 July 1943.