The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel O’Dell M. Conoley (MCSN: 0-5183), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain from 26 December 1943 to January 1944. Continuously exposing himself to intense barrages from concealed and well-entrenched enemy positions to direct the fire of his battalion. Lieutenant Colonel Conoley successfully repulsed repeated and determined counter attacks with heavy losses to the enemy. By his cool courage, indomitable fighting spirit and inspiring leadership Lieutenant Colonel Conoley was largely responsible in preventing hostile penetration of our lines and his valiant conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.