The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Rudolph F. Ward (MCSN: 802607), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 22 November 1943. With his company pinned down and suffering heavy casualties from heavy enemy fire emanating from a large bomb-proof shelter, Private First Class Ward moved forward with four companions under intense hostile shell fire to a favorable position for providing cover for the advancing demolition squad. After the shelter had been partially demolished and approximately one hundred of the Japanese annihilated he again advanced with his comrades as two hundred of the enemy emerged from the entrance firing rifles and light machine guns in an effort to withdraw and establish a new defense. Engaging the outnumbering forces in close combat he contributed to the success of his unit in accounting for many more of the Japanese, thereby enabling the battalion to advance and occupy the northeast section of the island. His courage and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Ward and the United States Naval Service.