The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Van L. Sadler, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to the FIRST Marine Division, while out on patrol with a Marine Company on Guadalcanal, 8 November 1942. Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Sadler rushed to the aid of a wounded man and successfully evacuated him to a nearby foxhole where he administered medical treatment. His courageous action contributed to the saving of a life. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.



