The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Conrad M. Fowler (MCSN: 0-8341), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during the Battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 25 November 1943. When his company was subjected to intense fire from hostile mortars and automatic weapons while advancing on a strongly organized and defended Japanese position, Captain Fowler unhesitatingly made his way to the front and, personally leading his troops through difficult jungle terrain under a barrage of grenades and fire, skillfully directed the company’s reserve and assault platoons, enabling his command to penetrate the enemy position successfully. Although he was painfully wounded during this engagement by an exploding hand grenade, he courageously refused evacuation and continued to lead his men for a period of thirty-six hours until they had defeated the enemy and accomplished their objective. Captain Fowler’s splendid leadership, dauntless valor and complete devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.