The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private John C. Wardlow (MCSN: 351718), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Company G, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands on November 2, 1942. During our advance on hostile gun positions two thousand yards west of the mouth of the Matanikau River, Private Wardlow suffered concussion and was deafened by the explosion of an enemy mortar shell. Although advised by his platoon leader to withdraw for first aid, he, in great pain, resumed his position in the attack and aided in driving back the Japanese until he was fatally wounded by hostile rifle fire. His grim determination and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.