The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major William Archibald Kengla (MCSN: 0-4872), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Sixth Marines (Reinforced), SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, 19 January 1943. When his battalion, attacking west along the Coast Road suddenly encountered withering and demoralizing fire from concealed enemy forces, Major Kengla, with inspiring leadership and utter disregard for his own personal safety, directed the extremely hazardous and laborious advance of his troops in the face of desperate hostile resistance. Dislodging the Japanese from their strong positions in the heavily camouflaged, narrow caves which had been dug into the sides of steep cliffs and ravines to serve as gun emplacements, his command was responsible for the complete destruction or forced retreat of the enemy. Major Kengla’s heroic conduct and valiant devotion to duty throughout the entire engagement contributed greatly to the success of this vital mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.